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Ethnogeriatrics Curriculum

An area of diversity that has been garnering attention recently is ethnogeriatrics, the branch of geriatrics that addresses the influence of race, culture, and ethnicity on the health and well being of the elderly.  

By 2001, people 65 and older will represent over 20 percent of the U.S. population.  The unprecedented increase in the number of older adults and their need for adequate and skilled care will present major and unique challenges for health professionals and the U.S. healthcare system overall. In light of the demographics projected for ethnic elders into the next century, there will be a significant need for healthcare providers who have training and understanding of the need of these groups. 

The AMSA Foundation has responded to this challenge by creating Ethnogeriatric Curricular Guidelines, compiled from recommendations of national leaders in the field, extensive literature review, federal guidelines and initiatives as well as Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME) guidelines.  As with the Cultural Competency Curricular Guidelines, AMSA has selected medical and dental schools to pilot the curriculum.

For more information on the Ethnogeriatrics Curriculum, contact Angelia Bowman, Director of the Center for the Future of Health Care, by email or by telephone at 703-620-6600 x216.