International journal of geriatric psychiatry
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Int J Geriatr Psychiatry · Jul 2001
Confidence of primary care physicians in assessing the suicidality of geriatric patients.
This study examined the confidence levels of physicians in assessing the risk of suicide among older adults in clinical settings. Of the 300 physicians who were selected from a population of 4980 family practice, internal medicine, and geriatric physicians in Illinois, 63% responded to the mail survey. Several categorical items inquired about specific assessment and treatment approaches, referral resources used, barriers to meeting the mental health needs of older patients, and sources of training in suicide risk assessment. ⋯ Confidence in diagnosing depression (beta = 0.38, p < 0.001) was the strongest predictor. More effective mental health care will require specific preparation in treating geriatric patients through the full spectrum of medical training, including medical school, residency, and CME courses. Improved prevention of elderly suicide hinges on the enhancement of clinical skills in diagnosing and treating geriatric depression.