Traditional medicine is concerned only with disease. Geriatrics medicine, on the other hand, is concerned more with aging. In older patients, the five traditional "giants" of medicine are immobility, incontinence, diminished cognition, and uncertainty. This medical field was created long before internal medicine. But, it has become its own specialty. If you'd like to become a doctor in this field, read on.
Symptoms
A doctor trained in geriatrics is particularly familiar with addressing the symptoms of older patients. Depression is a common condition for older people. But symptoms are often misdiagnosed. There are many treatments for depression that geriatricians can offer, including medications that can reduce the severity of the condition and improve the quality life. Heart failure is a common problem seen in geriatricians. It can also lead to other serious issues.
Geriatricians are required to weigh the pros, cons and side effects of various medications and treatments during residency. Geriatricians not only treat symptoms but also collaborate with other professionals such as pharmacists, social workers, and therapists in order to diagnose and treat various health conditions and diseases. Geriatricians should make their patients' well-being their number one priority. Geriatricians who have health insurance can accept Medicare and Medicaid.
Treatment
Among the many issues that geriatric patients face, many are related to aging. Geriatric diseases are often complex, affecting several body systems. Geriatric patients may not have had any symptoms in their earlier years. However, this disease can now be a chronic condition that has weakened their bodies. They may also have developed several chronic ailments, such as kidney disease and diabetic retinopathy. These diseases are managed by the goal of preserving the patient's function and health.
Patients who are older have very different health care requirements than patients younger. Older people may experience less energy and a diminished sense of balance. They may also have a decline in cognitive skills and not be able to absorb medication as well as older people. Geriatricians are specialists in healthcare for aging individuals. A physician who has experience in this field is better equipped to advise you on the best treatments and medications for your loved ones.
Specialties
Geriatrics deals with the elderly. Geriatricians aim to prevent and treat disease in the elderly. They also work to treat disabilities in this age group. These are the main aspects of the field. What can you expect from this career? How much training do you need? What are the normal duties of a doctor in geriatrics?
Geriatrics may be a good choice for those who have experience in nursing and medicine. Geriatricians are general practitioners who have an excellent understanding of the needs of seniors. Geriatricians are skilled in working with other disciplines and can communicate well. Geriatricians gravitate to specialties that combine medical care with rehabilitation and individual discharge planning. Anyone interested in this field is encouraged to accept a challenge.
Training
Geriatrics medicine has never required a higher degree. Instead, it emphasizes clinical skills as well as experience. There are many internationally renowned centers of geriatrics and funding opportunities are rapidly expanding. The specialty now includes research spanning basic biomedical sciences to translational gaps. Read on to learn more about the training in geriatric medicine.
In 1981, the Geriatric Medicine Fellowship (Division of Geriatric Medicine and Palliative Care) was established. The fellowship program prepares family doctors and internists to work in the field of geriatrics. It is highly respected. In addition to providing excellent training, this program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education. There are many options available for medical training in geriatrics. However, the best program will be for you.