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Geriatric education: a system approach.
M Splaine1, W B Brooks, J A Patterson
1Hitchcock Clinic, Lebanon, NH, USA.
The Journal of Ambulatory Care Management
|June 6, 1998
Summary
Geriatric educational initiatives can improve health professionals' practice. Pocket-sized materials and experiential learning were valuable components of Geriatrics Awareness Month, aiding in adopting new practices.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Geriatrics
- Systems Thinking
Background:
- Geriatric medicine requires complex systems thinking.
- Effective educational strategies are needed for health professionals in geriatrics.
- An institutionwide initiative, Geriatrics Awareness Month, was developed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe and evaluate an institutionwide geriatric educational initiative.
- To assess the impact of didactic and experiential learning on health professionals.
- To explore the utility of geriatrics as a context for learning systems thinking.
Main Methods:
- An institutionwide "Geriatrics Awareness Month" was implemented.
- Didactic sessions and formal experiential learning opportunities were provided.
- Evaluation of educational components and practice changes was conducted.
Main Results:
- Pocket-sized educational materials were highly valued by attendees of didactic sessions.
- Health professionals, including house staff, successfully modified their practice.
- The initiative provided a practical context for understanding systems thinking in geriatrics.
Conclusions:
- Geriatric educational initiatives can be effectively implemented institutionwide.
- Accessible educational materials and experiential learning enhance geriatric education.
- Geriatrics serves as a valuable clinical context for developing systems thinking skills.
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