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A randomized trial of office-based screening for common problems in older persons
A A Moore1, A l Siu, J M Partridge
1Multicampus Program in Geriatrics and Gerontology, University of California, Los Angeles School of Medicine 90095-1687, USA.
The American Journal of Medicine
|April 1, 1997
Summary
A brief screening tool effectively increased detection and follow-up for hearing loss in older adults. However, it did not significantly impact other common conditions or overall health status.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Medicine
- Primary Care
- Health Services Research
Background:
- Older adults often present with multiple health issues.
- Early detection of conditions like hearing loss is crucial for managing geriatric health.
- Office-based screenings can improve patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate a 10-minute screening tool for common conditions in older adults.
- To assess the effectiveness of staff-administered screening coupled with physician summaries.
- To determine the impact on detection, intervention, and health status.
Main Methods:
- Randomized controlled trial in 26 community-based primary care practices.
- 261 patients aged 70+ years were enrolled.
- Intervention group received the screening measure and clinical summaries; control group did not.
Main Results:
- Significantly higher detection (40% vs 28%) and evaluation (29% vs 16%) of hearing loss in the intervention group.
- No significant differences in detection or intervention for other screened conditions.
- No differences in health status at 6 months between groups.
Conclusions:
- The brief screening measure improved hearing loss detection and follow-up.
- The tool was well-accepted by physicians and staff.
- It did not improve detection/intervention for other conditions or overall health status.