Geriatrische Versorgung im Wandel

: Verbesserungspotenziale und konzeptionelle Perspektiven am Beispiel Oberösterreichs

Abstract

Profound demographic changes are posing major challenges to the Austrian healthcare system. The increasing ageing of the population and the growing number of older individuals are accompanied by complex, often chronic, and interdisciplinary conditions. In combination with resource scarcity, acute shortages of healthcare professionals, and structural disparities in service provision, the existing healthcare system is increasingly reaching its limits, particularly in the field of geriatric care. Against this background, the present Master's thesis is dedicated to a systematic analysis of geriatric care, with a particular focus on the region of Upper Austria. The aim is to identify key areas for improvement and, based on these findings, to develop a targeted, integrated, and needs-based care concept. Methodologically, the study draws on a comprehensive literature review and qualitative, guideline-based expert interviews. Several analytical tools were employed in processing the results, including an Ishikawa diagram for root cause analysis, a patient journey map to incorporate the patient perspective, and the identification of strategic levers for action. The findings reveal a broad spectrum of optimisation potential, particularly in the areas of cross-sectoral coordination, interprofessional communication, transparency, access to geriatric services, qualification of healthcare professionals, structural support for informal caregivers, and the currently hesitant use of digital technologies. In addition, deficits at the structural policy level also become apparent, including a lack of binding governance mechanisms, unclear responsibilities, and insufficiently coordinated regulatory frameworks. The developed concept builds on these potentials and aims at a needs-oriented further development of existing structures. It is designed to support holistic, patient-centred care that meets current challenges, existing demands, and future demographic developments. The core focus lies on care quality, safety, and continuity. The concept promotes sustainable structures, encompasses all dimensions of health, and highlights the need for binding communication and governance processes. It includes the use of appropriate control instruments and indicators that must be continuously adapted and refined in order to ensure a robust and future-proof care system. In addition, it provides concrete solution approaches to improve the current geriatric care structures. As the findings are based on the region of Upper Austria and shaped by the chosen methodology, their transferability is limited. Nonetheless, they offer key insights and valuable impulses for advancing geriatric care.

Date of Award	2025
Original language	German (Austria)
Supervisor	Johannes Kriegel (Supervisor)