Organizational issues in establishing geriatrics interdisciplinary team training

Area of Science:

• Geriatric Medicine
• Health Professions Education
• Interdisciplinary Team Training

Background:

• The John A. Hartford Foundation's geriatrics interdisciplinary team training (GITT) initiative aimed to establish a novel educational framework for health professions.
• While some elements of GITT existed previously, this initiative marked the first systematic planning, implementation, and evaluation of such training.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and analyze key organizational factors crucial for establishing geriatrics interdisciplinary team training programs.
• To provide insights that can facilitate the successful implementation of interdisciplinary training in healthcare institutions.

Main Methods:

• The study focused on four essential organizational factors: readiness, partnerships, institutional support, and program structure.
• Analysis of these factors and their influences was conducted to understand their role in GITT implementation.

Main Results:

• Organizational readiness, including needs assessment and resource evaluation, is vital.
• Strong partnerships between academic and clinical settings are essential for effective training.
• Sustained institutional support at multiple levels and appropriate administrative structures are critical for program success.

Conclusions:

• Successful implementation of geriatrics interdisciplinary team training hinges on careful consideration of organizational readiness, strategic partnerships, robust institutional support, and well-defined program structures.
• Understanding these factors can guide institutions in developing and sustaining effective interdisciplinary geriatric education programs.