2 research outputs found
Preventive steps implemented on geriatric services in the primary health care centers during COVID-19 pandemic
Background: The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic has changed the delivery of medical care across the world. Â The objective of the study is to understand and document the preventive steps implemented on geriatric services in the primary health care centers during COVID-19 pandemic.
Design and Methods: This is a retrospective study carried on geriatric services utilization (Geriatric clinic- osteoporosis clinic – Memory and dementia clinic) in primary health care centers in Dubai Health Authority in 2020.
Results: The study showed that the overall in person visits for all geriatric service in 2020 declined by almost 70%. The total number of telephone consultations in geriatric clinics, osteoporosis clinics and memory clinics were 1479, 1149 and 104 respectively. The COVID-19 pandemic had led to a reduction in most of the geriatric services including outpatient clinics, screening and referral. Telephone consultation provided a foundation for delivery of the service.
Conclusion: This study reflected the potential for telehealth services to bring benefits and convenience to the geriatric population, even after the end of the pandemic