Choosing a doctor in residential aged care

Many older people consider their relationship with their GP as one of the most critical relationships in their life. Unfortunately if you have a loved one entering residential aged care this relationship could come to an abrupt end. Time constraints, lack of financial incentive and simple geography mean your loved one may have to choose a new GP.

Finding a new doctor later in life can be difficult. On admission into an aged care home a nurse will usually give you a list of doctors to choose from. You may feel pressured into picking one straight away but take your time and try to talk with staff and other families before making a decision.

It's important when looking for a new GP to not only look for a doctor that you trust and have a good rapport with but one who understands the often complex needs of the frail aged and people with dementia. Do you feel confident that your GP will make the best decisions regarding your loved one's medical care toward the end stage of life?

I've put together a couple of points to consider when choosing a GP. Try and make a list of all the things that concern you before meeting a doctor. Have a chat to your loved one, what's important to them?

• Location. Is the practice close to the aged care home? Will the doctor do home visits? If a practice is too far away a GP will not visit as often and will spend less time with your loved one. Does the aged care home provide transport to the surgery? Is the GP able to be contacted after hours?
• Specialities. Does the GP specialise in geriatrics, palliative care or dementia? Does your loved one need specialised care for a chronic illness or pain management?
• Gender and language. Does your loved one prefer a male or female GP? Is English your loved one's first language?
• Ongoing care. Will the GP conduct regular health checks? Is the doctor willing to attend family conferences?
• Medications. How often does the GP conduct medication reviews? Are medications renewed automatically by computer or after a physical checkup?
• Recommendations. Ask for recommendations from family and friends. You can also ring your local Division of General Practice and ask about GPs in your area.
• Attitude. Is the GP approachable and considerate? How does the GP relate to older people and nursing staff?

 What experiences have you had? How has your loved one adjusted to a new GP later in life?