Geriatric education in osteopathic medical schools

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Geriatrics
• Osteopathic Medicine

Background:

• The growing geriatric demographic necessitates adequately trained physicians.
• Existing research has evaluated geriatric training in allopathic medical schools.
• The preparedness of osteopathic medical school graduates for geriatric care requires assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the extent to which colleges of osteopathic medicine (COMs) curricula prepare graduates for the geriatric population.
• To compare geriatric education in COMs with that in allopathic medical schools.

Main Methods:

• A modified survey, based on Karuza et al.'s study, was administered to 16 COMs.
• Survey results were compared with data from a previous survey of 73 allopathic medical schools.
• Data focused on institutional commitment and barriers to geriatric education.

Main Results:

• 88% of COMs reported a commitment to teaching geriatrics to undergraduate medical students.
• This commitment (88%) surpasses that of allopathic medical schools (72%).
• Lack of time and inadequate clinical facilities were identified as primary barriers in both types of institutions.

Conclusions:

• Colleges of osteopathic medicine demonstrate a high commitment to geriatric medical education.
• Despite commitment, significant barriers impede comprehensive geriatric training.
• Addressing time and facility limitations is crucial for enhancing physician preparedness for the aging demographic.