BayLady57 |
06-05-2022 06:02 AM |
Quote:
Originally Posted by heron848
(Post 2102164)
We recently moved here with my dad who is 101 years old and in reasonably good health. Does anybody have recommendations of general practitioners who are experienced with patients in this age category.
His cardiologist back in Ohio suggested finding a geriatrician. I have seen some doctors call themselves geriatricians but don't know if that is actually an additional certification or just an area of experience.
Thanks.
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I am a recently retired R.N. and worked the last 20 years in primary care at a VA hospital based clinic that had a geriatric clinic. The two doctor's that ran this clinic were board certified in internal medicine and went on to complete 2 year fellowships in geriatrics. Although not always an issue with the 80+ population which was a criteria to be enrolled in this clinic, these doctors receive additional training in the diseases that often plague the advanced age population that result in memory and behavior issues and the treatments utilized to treat them. Also, these doctors are very skilled in the medical management of palliative and hospice level of care, and many geriatricians are the medical directors of inpatient hospice facilities and home care agencies. Since there are many issues with the advanced age population that can impact their quality of life, focused geriatric care usually involves a team approach of doctors, pharmacists, nutritionists, social workers, behavioral health specialists, etc., so if you do choose to get a geriatrician to manage your father's care be sure the geriatrician has this adjunct staff as part of their practice or as consultants. I am new to TV so not very familiar with what healthcare that is available here, but maybe another will comment that can inform you of any geriatricians that have practices in the area.
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