[University studies plan in geriatric medicine developed using a modified Delphi technique]

Area of Science:

• Geriatric Medicine
• Medical Education
• Public Health

Background:

• Growing population of frail elderly necessitates improved geriatric care.
• Current undergraduate geriatric medicine training is insufficient in many European countries.
• Need for standardized medical education in aging and age-related diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

• Establish consensus among European geriatricians on minimum medical student competencies.
• Define essential learning objectives for undergraduate geriatric medicine training.
• Develop a standardized curriculum for future physicians.

Main Methods:

• Modified Delphi process involving 49 experts from 29 European countries.
• Literature review to inform initial learning objectives.
• Iterative consensus-building rounds to refine the study plan.

Main Results:

• Achieved full consensus on a definitive study plan after three Delphi rounds.
• Reduced disagreements from 81 to 0 across the rounds.
• Final plan comprises detailed objectives under 10 general training goals.

Conclusions:

• Consensus reached on specific geriatric training objectives for medical students.
• Implementation requires significant effort due to variability in current teaching quality.
• The study plan provides a foundation for advancing geriatric education in Europe.