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Shared-Medical Appointment for Screening and Risk Assessment for Fall Prevention
Ryan Moran1, Michelle Ramirez1, Gina Woods1
1University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, USA.
Gerontology & Geriatric Medicine
|July 12, 2023
Summary
Falls Prevention Shared Medical Appointments (SMAs) effectively reduce fall risk in older adults. This model integrates screening and personalized interventions, showing promise for broader implementation in geriatric care.
Area of Science:
- Geriatrics
- Preventive Medicine
- Health Services Research
Background:
- Aging population increases fall risk; falls are multifactorial but preventable.
- Limited patient-physician discussion regarding fall risk.
- Slow adoption of CDC's STEADI toolkit necessitates innovative approaches.
Purpose of the Study:
- To implement and evaluate a Falls Prevention Shared Medical Appointment (SMA) model.
- To assess the effectiveness of SMAs in reducing fall risk among older adults.
- To determine patient acceptability of the SMA model.
Main Methods:
- Patients referred to virtual or in-person SMAs.
- Initial nurse visit for fall risk screening.
- Group SMA session with physicians for strategy implementation.
Main Results:
- 52 patients (average age 77) assessed between Nov 2021-Feb 2023.
- Self-reported factors (risk, strength, polypharmacy) correlated with objective fall risk.
- High patient acceptability reported for the SMA model.
Conclusions:
- Falls Prevention SMAs demonstrate effectiveness in managing fall risk.
- Further research needed to optimize patient selection for SMAs.
- SMAs offer a viable model for enhancing geriatric fall prevention strategies.
