Geriatric Specialist Certification
How you gain your knowledge leading up to that examination is your choice.
Geriatric specialist certification. Hartford foundation institute of geriatric nursing at new york university. In 1989 the apta house of delegates approved board certification in the area of geriatrics. As of june 2010 abpts has certified 1109 geriatric specialists. The geriatric certificate program aims to improve our aging populations quality of care through a unique combination of well developed educational programs.
This specialty certification distinguishes aprns who possess expert knowledge experience and skill in managing the complex health needs of older adults. Geriatric specialist certification candidate guide 1 1. Education training a geriatrician is a physician who is specifically trained to evaluate and manage the unique healthcare needs and treatment preferences of older people. A geriatric specialist is a physician who treats the elderly population and the conditions that most commonly affect them.
The specialist certification program was established to provide formal recognition for physical therapists with advanced clinical knowledge experience and skills in a special area of practice and to assist consumers and the health care community in identifying these physical therapists. Raise the bar higher. These doctors have special training in the effects of aging on the body and mind of a patient. Board certification in geriatric physical therapy certification from the american board of physical therapy specialities.
To become an abpts specialist you must meet a requirement for a number of clinical practice hours and pass an examination. They diagnose and treat conditions that may commonly occur with age. Any continuing education might prepare pts for the abpts geriatric specialist exam. Geriatricians focus on maintaining well being and independence based on high quality person centered care.
Geriatric specialists treat common ailments faced by senior citizens such as frailty incontinence memory problems arthritis. The specialist certification program was established in 1978 by the american physical therapy association. A core curriculum in advanced practice geriatric nursing gnrs is a concise up to date and comprehensive text developed by the ags in collaboration with the john a. Geriatric nursing review syllabus.