Total quality management and geriatric care

Author(s): Coe, R. M., Morley, J. E., Gettman, J.

Journal/Book: Aust J Ageing. 1998; 17: Level 2, 3 Bowen Crescent, Melbourne, Victoria 3004, Australia. Council Ageing. 60-65.

Abstract: For numerous reasons it is essential that geriatric practitioners become involved in improving the care delivered to older patients in all clinical settings. One of the more promising approaches to enhancing care for older persons is the set of techniques and philosophy embodied in the Total Quality Management (TQM) method. To develop an agenda for improving the quality of care delivered to older persons, we surveyed over 1,600 geriatric practitioners and asked 38 experts in geriatric care and quality improvement (QI) to respond to a series of questionnaires. Findings resulted in suggested approaches to improving care in four delivery sites (office, home, acute hospital nursing home). Of note, the experts strongly favoured the newer QI methods such as TQM. Over traditional approaches such as Medicare Review and Minimum Data Set. Potential next steps to improve QI methods in geriatric care are outlined, use of TQM in office practice and nursing homes is reviewed, and examples of successful TQM programs in these settings are described.

Note: Article Miller DK, St Louis Univ, Hlth Sci Ctr, Div Geriatr Med, 1402 S Grand, RM M238, St Louis,MO 63104 USA

Keyword(s): ELDERLY PATIENTS; NURSING-HOME; HEALTH-CARE; PRACTITIONERS; INSTRUMENT; DELIRIUM

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