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Geriatric education centers address medication issues affecting older adults
A Kahl1, D H Blandford, K Krueger
1Geriatric Initiatives Branch, DADPHP/BHPr/HRSA, Rockville, MD 20857.
Public Health Reports (Washington, D.C. : 1974)
|January 1, 1992
Summary
Geriatric Education Centers (GECs) address critical issues in elderly medication use, including overuse and underuse. These centers enhance healthcare professionals
Area of Science:
- Geriatrics
- Pharmacology
- Medical Education
Background:
- Significant problems exist in medication prescribing and use among elderly patients.
- Overuse, underuse, and inappropriate drug use in older adults are well-documented with serious health consequences.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the need for improved health professional knowledge and skills regarding geriatric pharmacotherapy.
- To highlight the activities of Geriatric Education Centers (GECs) in enhancing these capacities.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature and documentation on geriatric medication issues.
- Description of educational activities conducted by GECs.
Main Results:
- Geriatric Education Centers (GECs) conduct multidisciplinary pharmacological reviews, specialized pharmacist training, discipline-specific programs, and public education.
- In fiscal year 1992, 31 GECs were operational across 26 states, supported by the Health Resources and Services Administration since 1983.
Conclusions:
- There is a clear need to improve healthcare professionals' understanding of medication use in the elderly.
- Geriatric Education Centers (GECs) play a vital role in providing specialized education to address these critical issues.