While it is difficult to accurately estimate the prevalence of malnutrition in older Australians, based on the current evidence, the best estimate of malnutrition in Australian community home care settings is around 15%. Malnutrition is both a cause and consequence of poor health across many patient groups and healthcare settings, particularly the elderly. However, malnutrition often remains undiagnosed and therefore untreated in the community setting in Australia highlighting the opportunity for improving outcomes in general practice.
This 1-hour accredited activity aims to raise awareness of malnutrition in general practice and enable GPs to actively screen for signs and symptoms of malnutrition, assess management options and intervene appropriately when required. The importance of closely monitoring patients for deterioration or improvement within a long-term patient care plan is also discussed.
This program is supported by an independent educational grant provided from Abbott Nutrition.