Implementing a Clinically Based Fall Prevention Program

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Public Health
• Preventive Medicine

Background:

• Falls are the leading cause of injury-related death and disability among older adults.
• The aging US population will increase the burden of falls.
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) developed the STEADI initiative to address fall risks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the integration of the STEADI fall prevention initiative into primary care settings.
• To assess the effectiveness of STEADI implementation in reducing fall risks in older adults.

Main Methods:

• STEADI components were integrated into electronic health records (EHR) at primary care sites.
• Fall risk screening questions were added to patient intake forms.
• Clinical champions and staff training supported the implementation.

Main Results:

• In the first year, 79% of older patients were screened for fall risk, with 18.1% screening positive.
• Over half of positive patients completed gait and balance assessments.
• Screening rates slightly decreased in the second year, but positive screening remained consistent.

Conclusions:

• Successful integration of fall prevention into primary care requires clinical champions, ongoing training, EHR incorporation, and workflow adaptation.
• The STEADI initiative demonstrates a viable model for primary care-based fall prevention.