Comprehensive Analysis of the Geriatrics Workforce Enhancement Program (GWEP): Legislative Origins, Funding Mechanisms, Program Models, Evaluation Methods, Implementation Challenges, Best Practices, and Global Comparisons

Abstract

The aging global population necessitates a healthcare workforce adept in geriatrics to ensure quality care for older adults. The Geriatrics Workforce Enhancement Program (GWEP), administered by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), aims to address this need by integrating geriatrics into primary care and emphasizing patient and family engagement. This report provides an in-depth analysis of GWEP, covering its legislative origins, funding mechanisms, program models, evaluation methods, implementation challenges, best practices for interprofessional collaboration, and a comparative analysis with other geriatric workforce development initiatives worldwide.

Many thanks to our sponsor Esdebe who helped us prepare this research report.

1. Introduction

The demographic shift towards an older population presents significant challenges to healthcare systems globally. In the United States, the GWEP was established to enhance the geriatrics workforce, ensuring that healthcare providers are equipped to meet the complex needs of older adults. This report examines the multifaceted aspects of GWEP, offering insights into its inception, operational strategies, and its role in shaping the future of geriatric care.

Many thanks to our sponsor Esdebe who helped us prepare this research report.

2. Legislative Origins and Funding Mechanisms

2.1 Legislative Origins

The GWEP was established under Title VII of the Public Health Service Act, which focuses on improving the health of the nation through the training of health professionals. The program was designed to address the growing need for a workforce skilled in geriatrics, aiming to integrate geriatrics into primary care and other specialties to improve health outcomes for older adults. (bhw.hrsa.gov)

2.2 Funding Mechanisms

Administered by HRSA, the GWEP receives federal funding to support its initiatives. The program operates on a competitive grant basis, with institutions such as universities, healthcare facilities, and community organizations eligible to apply. For instance, in 2024, HRSA awarded over $206 million to 42 grantees to educate and train the healthcare workforce to care for older Americans by collaborating with community partners. (bhw.hrsa.gov)

Many thanks to our sponsor Esdebe who helped us prepare this research report.

3. Program Models and Curricula

3.1 Program Models

GWEP grantees implement diverse program models tailored to their specific community needs. Common elements include:

• Interprofessional Education: Training healthcare professionals across disciplines to work collaboratively in geriatrics.

• Community Partnerships: Collaborating with local organizations to enhance care delivery and address community-specific challenges.

• Age-Friendly Health Systems Framework: Adopting the 4Ms framework—What Matters, Medication, Mentation, and Mobility—to provide comprehensive care for older adults. (americangeriatrics.org)

3.2 Curricula

Curricula are designed to equip healthcare providers with the skills necessary for effective geriatric care. Key components often include:

• Clinical Training: Hands-on experience in geriatrics within primary care settings.

• Cultural Competency: Training to address the diverse backgrounds of older adults.

• Patient and Family Engagement: Strategies to involve patients and families in care planning and decision-making.

Many thanks to our sponsor Esdebe who helped us prepare this research report.

4. Evaluation Methods

4.1 Assessing Effectiveness and Impact

Evaluating the success of GWEP initiatives involves:

• Quantitative Metrics: Tracking outcomes such as improved patient health indicators and reduced hospital readmissions.

• Qualitative Feedback: Gathering insights from patients, families, and healthcare providers to assess satisfaction and perceived quality of care.

• Longitudinal Studies: Monitoring the long-term impact of GWEP-trained professionals on geriatric care quality.

4.2 Beyond Anti-Racism Efforts

While anti-racism is a critical component, evaluations also focus on:

• Clinical Competency: Assessing the proficiency of healthcare providers in geriatric care.

• Systemic Integration: Evaluating how well geriatrics is integrated into primary care systems.

• Sustainability: Determining the long-term viability of program initiatives.

Many thanks to our sponsor Esdebe who helped us prepare this research report.

5. Implementation Challenges

5.1 Common Challenges

Implementing GWEP initiatives presents several challenges:

• Resource Constraints: Limited funding and personnel can hinder program expansion.

• Resistance to Change: Healthcare providers may be hesitant to adopt new practices or curricula.

• Sustainability: Ensuring that program benefits continue after initial funding periods.

5.2 Addressing Challenges

Strategies to overcome these challenges include:

• Stakeholder Engagement: Involving all relevant parties in planning and decision-making processes.

• Continuous Training: Providing ongoing education to maintain program momentum.

• Data-Driven Decisions: Using evaluation data to inform program adjustments and improvements.

Many thanks to our sponsor Esdebe who helped us prepare this research report.

6. Best Practices for Fostering Interprofessional Collaboration

6.1 Collaborative Training

Encouraging joint training sessions for healthcare professionals from various disciplines to promote teamwork and understanding.

6.2 Shared Goals

Establishing common objectives related to patient care to unify efforts across professions.

6.3 Communication Skills

Training in effective communication strategies to enhance interprofessional interactions.

Many thanks to our sponsor Esdebe who helped us prepare this research report.

7. Comparative Analysis with Global Initiatives

7.1 International Perspectives

Globally, several initiatives aim to enhance the geriatric workforce:

• United Kingdom: The National Health Service (NHS) has implemented programs focusing on geriatric education and training for healthcare professionals.

• Australia: The Australian Government funds programs to improve the quality of aged care services through workforce development.

7.2 Comparative Insights

While GWEP shares common goals with these international programs, differences exist in:

• Program Structure: Variations in funding models and program administration.

• Curriculum Focus: Differences in the emphasis on specific geriatric competencies.

• Evaluation Methods: Diverse approaches to assessing program outcomes and effectiveness.

Many thanks to our sponsor Esdebe who helped us prepare this research report.

8. Conclusion

The GWEP plays a pivotal role in preparing the healthcare workforce to meet the needs of an aging population. By integrating geriatrics into primary care, fostering interprofessional collaboration, and emphasizing patient and family engagement, GWEP addresses critical gaps in geriatric care. Continuous evaluation and adaptation of program models are essential to ensure sustained impact and to inform global efforts in geriatric workforce development.

Many thanks to our sponsor Esdebe who helped us prepare this research report.

References

• Health Resources and Services Administration. (n.d.). Geriatrics Workforce Enhancement Program (GWEP). Retrieved from (bhw.hrsa.gov)

• American Geriatrics Society. (n.d.). GWEP Coordinating Center. Retrieved from (americangeriatrics.org)

• University of Southern Indiana. (2024, June 25). USI receives $5 million to renew Geriatrics Workforce Enhancement Program. Retrieved from (usi.edu)

• Health Resources and Services Administration. (2024). Geriatrics Workforce Enhancement Program. Retrieved from (hrsa.gov)

• Health Resources and Services Administration. (2024). Geriatrics Workforce Enhancement Program Awardees. Retrieved from (bhw.hrsa.gov)

• University of California, San Francisco. (2024, September 15). We Received a Competitive Five Year Renewal from HRSA for GWEP. Retrieved from (geriatrics.ucsf.edu)

• University of Southern Indiana. (n.d.). About the GWEP. Retrieved from (usi.edu)

• Health Resources and Services Administration. (2020). FY2020 COVID-19 Workforce Telehealth Awards. Retrieved from (bhw.hrsa.gov)

• Health Resources and Services Administration. (2020). Geriatrics Workforce Enhancement Program COVID. Retrieved from (hrsa.gov)

• University of Illinois. (2021). Enhancement of Geriatric Care for All. Retrieved from (healthmattersprogram.org)

• Health Resources and Services Administration. (2018). Geriatrics Workforce Enhancement Program. Academic Year 2018-2019. Retrieved from (bhw.hrsa.gov)

• Health Resources and Services Administration. (2017). Geriatrics Workforce Enhancement Program. Academic Year 2017-2018. Retrieved from (bhw.hrsa.gov)

• Health Resources and Services Administration. (2016). Geriatrics Workforce Enhancement Program. Academic Year 2016-2017. Retrieved from (bhw.hrsa.gov)

• Health Resources and Services Administration. (2023). Geriatrics Workforce Enhancement Program TA Webinar. Retrieved from (hrsa.gov)