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Purpose and Mission
A geriatric physician is a doctor who works to prevent and treat disease and disability in older adults. Also called geriatricians, these physicians are usually GPs who have chosen to become specialists in the aging process.
A separate job category, gerontologists are researchers who study the aging process. Some are medical doctors, but many have other scientific backgrounds.
These caring professionals have had several years of additional training to learn the ins and outs of medical care for older adults. Most have chosen to become board certified in family medicine and/or internal medicine, as well as taking a certification in geriatric medicine.
Geriatric specialists focus on health problems that typically impact older adults, such as nutrition, cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, dealing with pain, falls, sight, hearing and memory loss, incontinence, and managing the side effects of medications.
Reports To
While some work in a private practice, a significant percentage of geriatricians are employed at hospitals and large private and community clinics. In most cases, geriatric specialists report to a department head, service chief, or similar mid-level administrator.
Supervisory Responsibilities
Geriatricians typically have notable supervisory responsibilities, particularly those with more experience. Senior specialists are often expected to supervise residents and help train medical students in addition to helping with oversight and evaluation of technical personnel.
Qualifications
The first step in becoming a geriatric specialist is to earn a bachelor’s degree, and then graduate from medical school. After medical school, new doctors must learn the ropes of the profession by completing a multi-year clinical residency program working closely with experienced colleagues.
Becoming board certified in geriatrics means making an application to the Royal Australasian College of Physicians for a fellowship in the specialty.​ An RACP fellowship in geriatrics requires finishing a two- or three-year general practice/family medicine residency, followed by an at least two year geriatrics residency.
Responsibilities of a Geriatric Specialist
A geriatric physician are an important member of a health care team and is trained to diagnose and treat health issues that affect the elderly. Geriatricians typically work closely with nurses, social workers, nutritionists, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, pharmacists, and geriatric psychiatrists. Geriatricians today are increasingly focused on maintaining a patient’s quality of life, including her social support, living conditions, home life, and community interactions.
Geriatric specialists work with patients in hospitals, nursing homes, rehab centers, larger clinics, and doctor’s offices, and also help arrange and manage in-home care.
