Use and acceptance of a basic geriatric assessment in primary care setting

Aim of this study was to evaluate the acceptance and use of a basic geriatric assessment (BGA), as it is covered by the German pay system, in primary care practices. We conducted qualitative interviews and collected quantitative data by an online questionnaire. A total of 17 (10 men) general practitioners (GPs) agreed to be interviewed; 161 patients (134 men) completed the online questionnaire. GPs mainly performed BGA to substantiate the suspicion of cognitive impairment. Most of the German general practices accomplished not more than 5-10 BGA per quarter. Although those GPs who conducted BGA were convinced of its usefulness with regard to further patient care, concrete interventions were rarely named. The tests used within the BGA were not always in line with recommendations from the specific guidelines. The main reasons not to conduct BGA were the amount of time required and the lack of therapeutic consequences. Hitherto BGA is not an established tool in German primary care practices. The question, which single instruments are most suitable for older general practice patients, still needs clarification.