Date of Defense

4-19-2016

Date of Graduation

4-2016

Department

Physician Assistant

First Advisor

Janet Hahn

Second Advisor

Carla Chase

Third Advisor

Alberta Griffin

Abstract

While exploring modern healthcare in the United States, a variety of topics and buzzwords are quickly apparent. These topics frequently include the innovation of biomedical technology, the Affordable Care Act, and health informatics. While these, and a variety of other aspects regarding healthcare are extremely important and crucial to a developed nation, I find one topic painfully absent from the public’s current focus. I am referring to more than a topic…an entire population. Not just a population, but the fastest growing population in the United States; older adults. In this thesis, I further explore the importance of caring for older adults and the specialized care that they demand and deserve. To combat the lack of physicians available to provide care, I introduce the idea of utilizing midlevel care workers including nurse practitioners (NPs) and physician assistants (PAs). To narrow the scope, my primary focus is on physician assistants specially trained in geriatrics, to serve the unique needs of the older population.

Access Setting

Honors Thesis-Restricted

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