Consensus-based policy recommendations for geriatric emergency care

The purpose of this paper is to establish policy recommendations to address service and care delivery challenges facing hospital emergency departments (EDs) responding to the needs of increasing numbers of older adults.

The consensus development process used an international expert interdisciplinary panel, convened at an international conference. Following a round table discussion and think-tank session, a nominal group method with constant comparative analysis and coding techniques was used to identify policy recommendations. Two rounds of electronic input followed the face-to-face meeting to reach consensus on priority ranking of the policy recommendations. Findings underwent an external review by four independent experts.

A total of seven categories of policy recommendations were developed: education, integration and coordination of care, resources, ED physical environment, evidence-based practice, research and evaluation, and advocacy.

The consensus development process did not include a systematic literature review on the topic. However, participants included experts in their disciplines.

The recommendations may assist administrators, policy makers, clinicians, and researchers on future directions for improving emergency care and service delivery for older adults.

The paper describes the process and results of a consensus development activity for ED care and services of older adults.