Einstellungen von Medizinischen Fachangestellten und Hausärzt:innen zum geriatrischen Assessment in der Hausarztpraxis

The geriatric basic assessment in primary care (pcGBA) is performed in patients aged 70 years and above, exhibiting geriatric-specific morbidity, with the aim of systematically recording everyday problems and functional impairments. There is currently limited knowledge regarding the utility of pcGBA, as well as perceptions, acceptance, and application at the primary care level.

Which components of a geriatric assessment are considered meaningful by general practitioners (GPs) and medical assistants (MAs), what is reported to be performed by the respondents, and who carries out which measures?

The survey was conducted among GPs and their MAs listed within the regional Associations of Statutory Health Insurance Physicians in Thuringia, Berlin, and Brandenburg using a self-designed and pilot-tested questionnaire. The Manageable Geriatric Assessment (MAGIC) and the geriatric screening according to LACHS were used as content bases, adapted to the circumstances of primary care. A fictitious case scenario and dichotomous response options were provided for assessment.

A total of 890 physicians (response rate 16.1%) and 566 MAs participated in the survey. The pcGBA is performed and assessed differently in participating GP practices. According to the respondents, assessments of the psychosocial situation (50.8%) and medication status (62.6%) would predominantly be performed by GPs, standardized tests more frequently by MAs. Not all recommended contents and provided services of the pcGBA are considered useful by GPs and MAs.