If the assessment item was performed by two different people within a short period of time, the same response would result. Uses for the data are also discussed. Geron, Scott Miyake. Geriatric assessment in long term care is important for a variety of reasons. Assessments range from medical or psychiatric diagnoses done by medical specialists to comprehensive assessments done in community-based settings to develop a care plan.
Assessments determine the long term care needs of the geriatric patient.
In addition, geriatric assessments contain broad policy and practice implications. For the elderly patient, assessment can determine what financial, social, and health services will be covered. Insurance companies are using assessments for reimbursement. Agencies and programs use assessments to justify the need for public and private dollars. When assessments are done appropriately and completely, quality services can be assured and patients will receive equitable treatments.