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Our geriatricians are committed to improving the quality of life and health of patients over the age of 65. We provide access to no fee (bulk billed) aged care specialist services including 'Comprehensive Geriatric Assessments' (CGA). A geriatrician is a 'specialist physician' with over 14 years hospital training to become (MBBS & FRACP) qualified.

 

What is a 'Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment' (CGA)?

 

Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA) extends beyond the ‘traditional’ medical consultation. It involves a multidisciplinary diagnostic and treatment approach encompassing all aspects of a person’s health. This involves medical, cognitive, mental, physical, functional, social, environmental, and spiritual. This systematic evaluation allows for multiples issues to be identified and addressed accordingly. Importantly it appreciates how certain medical conditions, medications, and social aspects of a person’s life can impact on their health. The patient’s goals and wishes, remain the centre of the assessment and a collaborative management plan is created.

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How long does a CGA take?

 

A CGA takes approximately 60 minutes and is a Medicare billing item. It is provided to person’s aged at least 65 years and older, and requires a referral by the general practitioner (GP). Geriatric Care Australia believes that financial status should never be a barrier to accessing specialist medical care and so, we offer this service with no fee (bulk billed).

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What is discussed?

 

The key features of CGA are:

• Cognition

• Falls risk

• Functional capacity

• Mood

• Polypharmacy

• Sleep

• Social support

• Goals of care

• Advanced care planning

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Additional components which may be discussed include:

• Incontinence

• Bowel habit

• Nutritional status

• Vision

• Hearing

• Spirituality

 

What are the benefits?

 

CGAs allows the identification of not only medical issues, but those outside of the ‘traditional’ role of a medical practitioner. This allows for a multidisciplinary approach, with the geriatrician referring the person to the appropriate health service. This may include social work, occupational therapist, physiotherapist, dietitian, or exercise physiologist.

 

How often does a person over 65 need one?

 

An initial assessment takes approx. 1-1.5 hours providing a 'blue print' to the residents current clinical status, then a follow up is performed every 3-6 months (taking approx. 30 mins), to review status and any further diagnoses or treatment requirements.

 

What about my GP?

 

Your GP as the primary care provider is integral to ensure continuity of care, why a referral is needed to see specialist doctors. At GCA we work with GPs to ensure management of a patient in the community does not change, our job is to enhance your care by complimenting your GPs skillset. We work with your GP to provide specialist doctor input on the specific and complex areas of geriatric medicine for over 65s.