ASSESSING TRAINING NEEDS OF GERIATRIC SERVICE PROVIDERS: PROGRAM RATIONALE AND FOCUS GROUP OUTCOMES

Abstract

To address gerontology training needs, a comprehensive, multifaceted, convergent statewide assessment was conducted in the state of Georgia as an initial step to developing a university‐based Gerontology Outreach Program for providing continuing education. This article is the first of three describing the design, implementation, and outcome of the needs assessment approach, which included focus groups, a telephone survey, and site visits. Three focus groups were organized and conducted to identify training content and issues related to training. Parallel methods were used to conduct each focus group. Participants identified and prioritized topics, target audiences, and preferred delivery methods for training in gerontology. Among the training issues identified were barriers tied to funding, time, location of training, and lack of coordination and collaboration among resources. The results underscore the need for coordinated continuing education program planning in gerontology.