General practitioner views of a new specialist Department of Medicine for the Elderly

The reactions of General Practitioners (GPs) in an area served by a new Department of Medicine for the Elderly (Geriatric Medicine) are described. 89% of GPs thought the new service had brought significant benefits to their patients, The department operated an over 80 admission policy for acute medical admissions. After two years in operation 59% of doctors felt this should be lowered with 4% suggesting it should be raised. Rehabilitation and respite admissions were other features of the new service that had approval ratings of over 70% by the doctors surveyed. It is suggested that a Department of Medicine for the Elderly with a policy of rapid assessment and high turnover is appreciated by GPs. While local circumstances will often dictate policy it is suggested that an age-related admission procedure will minimise difficulty for patient and referring practitioner alike.