Exploring the Need of Establishing Geriatric Care Centre in Ghana: The perspective of healthcare practitioners and Elderly Patients

Abstract

Background Older patients in developing countries face major challenges in accessing comprehensive medical care. The assessment of the need to establish a geriatric center has been poorly studied in Ghana. This study explored the need of establishing geriatric care center among healthcare practitioners and elderly patients at the Presbyterian Hospital, Dormaa Ahenkro of Ghana. Methodology: An exploratory qualitative study employed purposive sampling technique to recruit participants. Applying In-depth interview guide to solicit study data. Data was collected face to face with the help of audio recorded devices and notes taking alongside with participants. Data was transcribed verbatim using NVivo (v16). Braun and Clarke thematic analysis was conducted on the transcribed data to generate themes and sub-themes. Results Four themes and nine sub-themes evolved out of the study. It was established that, health care practitioners had experienced in providing care to geriatrics. Skill acquisition and continuous training enhanced practitioner’s experience. practitioners indicated the need of establishing geriatric friendly center with the supportive equipment. Elderly patients revealed common disease conditions that compel them to frequently visit the hospital. It was also reported that elderly patients face financial challenges and delayence while accessing healthcare. Conclusion Despite the vast experience and demonstration of good knowledge by healthcare practitioners in providing geriatric care, aged patients complained of financial challenges and service delayence. Establishing geriatric friendly center with functional equipment and financial support would ease aged patients challenge in accessing healthcare. Further study is required to explore elderly patients experience of home support system from immediate relatives.