The British Geriatrics Society And Doctors.Net.Uk Join Forces To Improve The Care Of Older Patients

The British Geriatrics Society and Doctors.net.uk today announced a new partnership created to improve the information available to doctors involved in the healthcare of older people. Doctors.net.uk is a free, professional website used by over 90% of UK doctors, and provides members with a range of services including educational CPD modules. The British Geriatrics Society is the professional association of specialist doctors, GPs, nurses, therapists and other health professionals engaged in the healthcare of older people and in promoting better health in old age.

BGS Chief Executive, Colin Nee said: “The number of patients with multiple long-term health conditions is increasing all the time. So I am delighted to announce this new partnership which can only benefit older people with complex health needs. In joining forces, Doctors.net.uk and the British Geriatrics Society will work together to target information, educational events and networking opportunities to doctors – not just to the specialists but also our GPs who are often the first port of call for older people when they become unwell. Those over the age of 85 consult their GPs more intensively than any other age group”.

Our ageing society is a huge achievement that society should be proud of. But it also gives rise to important challenges for our health and social care services. Over two thirds of acute hospital inpatients in the UK are over the age of 65.

Dr Tim Ringrose, CEO of Doctors.net.uk commented: “Care for elderly patients is of crucial importance for the NHS. Many older patients have multiple and complex medical issues and place a high demand on NHS services. This partnership will provide all doctors with access to high quality information and education about best practice to help them provide the best possible care whilst reducing unnecessary hospital admissions and cost.”