In the next 30 years, the elderly population will double.

That’s what the data shows.

According to Dr. Ugochi Ohuabunwa, Professor of Medicine at Emory University, that striking statistic underscores the importance of establishing good processes of geriatric care across healthcare systems.

Dr. Ohuabunwa’s passion for geriatrics began at a young age.

Initially, she was interested in critical care, but geriatrics offered a chance to get involved early with the elderly and help them age gracefully.

You might wonder what makes geriatrics different from primary care.

Like pediatrics, it’s a highly specialized branch of medicine.

Consider this:

It is not uncommon for the elderly to react to medications differently than the average population.

Knowing what to prescribe in addition to the proper dosage is critically important.

And that’s only one of many unique aspects found in geriatric medicine.

Guidelines will help doctors without that specialized understanding make better decisions in the healthcare of the elderly.

Ultimately, that’s what drives Dr. Ohuabunwa. A future where all doctors can feel confident in their treatment decisions.

To hear this interview and more like it, subscribe to Heroes of Healthcare on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

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