Transforming care for older people in hospital: physicians must embrace the challenge

摘要

Why this matters-The English National Health Service (NHS) is caught in a 'perfect storm' relating to older people's care in hospital. A recent series of reports repeatedly highlights a picture of poor or variable care and a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform services, which physicians must grasp. The public dialogue in the media, public office,campaigns and studies exploring the causes of poor care has majored on the crucial role of nursing and nurses, with doctors peripheral to the story. We must take our share of responsibility for the problems and for lasting solutions, ensuring that the care of our oldest patients consistently meets the standards that they and their families have the right to expect.