A conceptual framework for teaching geriatrics in a family medicine residency

There is increasing recognition of the need for educational programs in geriatric medicine, a previously neglected area of medical education. Such training is particularly important in family medicine residencies because primary care physicians have provided the bulk of health care to the elderly and probably will continue to do so. There are many advantages to using a competency-based curriculum model in developing such an educational program in geriatric medicine. The competency-based model clearly states educational objectives and identifies pertinent instructional resources and evaluation methods. A competency-based curriculum model is described which divides competencies under four major goals: understanding principles of geriatric medicine, obtaining and interpreting data, managing geriatric patients, and working as a member of a health care team. Sample objectives for each goal are described, and experience using this model in a family residency is reviewed.