Transforming Geriatric Care in Greece: Insights from a Swiss Scientific Mission

In August 2024, I embarked on a transformative two-week Short-Term Scientific Mission (STSM) at the Geriatrische Klinik St.Gallen, Switzerland, supported by the COST PROGRAMMING CA21122. This journey was not just a mission; it was a pivotal opportunity to bridge the gap between current practices in Greece and advanced geriatric care techniques in Switzerland.

Project Overview

The primary aim of my project, titled “Strategic Insights into Geriatric Care: Evaluating Clinical Practices for Enhanced Performance and Social Impact,” was to delve into the sophisticated methodologies employed in Swiss geriatric care. The objective was to gather actionable insights that could potentially revolutionize geriatric care practices in Greek healthcare settings, contributing to my PhD dissertation on healthcare sustainability.

Activities and Learning Experiences

My activities at the Geriatrische Klinik St.Gallen were diverse and thoroughly planned. The first week was dedicated to observing and integrating into the daily routines of the clinic. I toured various facilities including the Kantonspital of St.Gallen, a nursing home, a retirement home, and an Alzheimer’s unit. Shadowing medical staff and nurses provided me with firsthand experience of the operational frameworks and patient care protocols.

Significant interactions included attending ‘Eintritts’ and ‘Austritts’ (admissions and discharges), comprehensive geriatric assessments, and interprofessional healthcare team meetings. These experiences highlighted the integrated care approach and the meticulous attention to detail that characterizes Swiss geriatric care.

During the second week, I visited the OST – Eastern Switzerland University of Applied Sciences’ Health Department, exploring their educational facilities and innovative training methods, such as the SimDec apartment. A day spent at the Chair of Healthcare Management at the University of St.Gallen enriched my understanding of ongoing research and future potentials in geriatric care.

Challenges Faced

The primary challenge was the sheer complexity of integrating such advanced practices within the constraints of the Greek healthcare system, which is currently grappling with resource limitations and systemic issues. Additionally, ensuring the accuracy and applicability of the observed practices to the Greek context required meticulous analysis and adaptation.

Successes Achieved

Despite the challenges, the mission was highly successful. I developed a comprehensive understanding of Swiss geriatric care models that are effectively managing complex patient needs through interdisciplinary collaboration and advanced technology. These insights are invaluable for proposing similar strategies in Greece.

I established a framework for ongoing collaboration with Swiss experts, which will foster continuous knowledge exchange and joint research initiatives. Discussions with the Chair of Healthcare Management have already set the stage for developing geriatric care metrics and indices tailored to the needs of Greece.

Looking Ahead

The mission has paved the way for significant improvements in Greek geriatric care practices. The knowledge and experiences gained are not just theoretical but have practical applicability that can be adapted to enhance the quality of care and operational efficiency in Greek geriatric facilities.

This STSM has not only contributed to my academic growth but has also opened doors for future collaborations that promise to bring about tangible changes in the care of older persons in Greece, aligning with international standards and innovations.