Clinical and Practice Management Tools

AGS released the fully revised, sixth edition of its Geriatrics Review Syllabus: A Core Curriculum in Geriatric Medicine (GRS6) - the premier source of clinically relevant information on geriatrics-in March 2006. An authoritative reference, a self-assessment continuing education tool for geriatrics healthcare providers, and a key teaching resource, the updated GRS6 covered the latest developments in the field. More than 100 leading geriatrics experts collaborated on revisions to GRS6, which was released as both a 3-volume print set and in CD-ROM format. The CD-ROM includes additional features that allow users to follow cross-references among chapters and move from question critiques to relevant passages in the Syllabus for further information. Clinicians who use the GRS6' self-assessment features can earn 75 Continuing Medical Education credits through the American Medical Association (AMA), American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), and American Osteopathic Association (AOA). In addition, the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) approved the CD-ROM version of the GRS6's self-assessment tools for 100 lifelong learning points for ABIM diplomates enrolled in its Maintenance of Certification program. AGS updated its Geriatrics Review Syllabus Teaching Slides Web site with information from GRS6 as well.

In 2006, AGS also released the 2006-2007 edition of Geriatrics At Your Fingertips (GAYF), its highly acclaimed, concise guide to the evaluation and management of health problems and disorders affecting older patients. The 2006-2007 edition of GAYF included new sections on dysphagia, irritable bowel syndrome, orthostatic hypotension, plantar fascitis, rheumatoid arthritis, and treatment of early-stage prostate cancer. Available in both print and online it also included information about the new Medicare prescription drug benefit and new medications approved by the Food and Drug Administration at the end of 2005.

AGS' Ethnogeriatrics Committee published the much awaited second volume of Doorway Thoughts: Cross-Cultural Health Care for Older Adults - a guide designed to help clinicians and geriatrics educators appreciate important cultural differences among older adults - during the Society's Annual Scientific Meeting in May. This second volume addresses care for Arab American, Cambodian American, Filipino American, Haitian American, Korean American, Pakistani American, Portuguese American and Russian American older adults. The "doorway thoughts" in the series' title are key concepts concerning cultural influences on the dynamic between providers and patients. These are concepts, the authors note, that clinicians should reflect on before "walking through the doorway of any examining, consultation, or hospital room."