Impact of Geriatric Scholars Program on VA Psychologists' Practice
Author Information
Author(s): Gould Christine, Gregg Jeffrey, Rodriguez Rachel
Primary Institution: VA Palo Alto Healthcare System
Hypothesis
Participation in the Geriatric Scholars Program will improve VA psychologists' clinical practice.
Conclusion
Participation in the GSP-P activities has led to improvements in the quality of care provided to older Veterans.
Supporting Evidence
- 75% of respondents reported that GSP-P activities impacted their clinical practice.
- Scholars noted improved conceptualization of patients’ presenting concerns.
- Increased use of standardized assessment measures was reported.
- Scholars expanded their intervention skills, applying evidence-based psychotherapies.
Takeaway
The Geriatric Scholars Program helps psychologists take better care of older Veterans by teaching them new skills and ways to think about their patients.
Methodology
A rapid qualitative analysis approach was used to examine open-ended survey responses from GSP-P alumni.
Limitations
Detecting changes in clinical practice is challenging due to the qualitative nature of the data.
Participant Demographics
Participants were VA psychologists serving older Veterans.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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