How to Be Geriatric Health Care Administrator - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Jan 17, 2023 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

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An aging population has led to an increased demand for geriatric health care administrators, who are responsible for managing the health care needs of older adults. These professionals must understand the unique physical, mental, and emotional needs of this population and be able to develop and implement programs that meet them. To achieve success in this role, the administrator must possess strong organizational and communication skills, as well as knowledge of insurance regulations and the aging process.

Furthermore, they must be prepared to collaborate with a variety of professionals, including physicians, nurses, social workers, and family members, to ensure that elderly patients receive the best possible care. Without geriatric health care administrators, the elderly population would not receive the specialized care they need to maintain their quality of life.

Steps How to Become

Earn a Bachelor's Degree. The first step to becoming a geriatric health care administrator is to earn a bachelor's degree in healthcare administration, business administration, public health, or a related field. A degree in gerontology or aging studies may also be beneficial.
Gain Experience. Working in a related field or volunteer experience in a geriatric health care setting is beneficial. Working as an administrative assistant, medical assistant, or nurse in a nursing home or assisted living facility can provide valuable experience.
Consider Certification. Certification through the American College of Health Care Administrators (ACHCA) is an option for geriatric health care administrators. The certification process includes completing coursework, passing an exam, and completing a certain number of hours of continuing education credits every three years.
Pursue an Advanced Degree. An advanced degree in gerontology, healthcare administration, public health, or a related field can be beneficial for those seeking to become geriatric health care administrators.
Get Licensed. Depending on the state, geriatric health care administrators may need to be licensed to practice. Requirements for licensure vary by state.

In order to stay ahead and qualified as a Geriatric Health Care Administrator, it is important to stay up-to-date with the latest trends in gerontology, health care policy, and healthcare technology. Staying informed of the changing laws and regulations regarding geriatric health care is essential to remaining compliant with the many federal, state, and local rules and regulations. it is important to maintain professional certifications and continuing education credits that are required for this field.

Furthermore, developing strong relationships with other professionals in the field, such as physicians, nurses, and social workers, can help to ensure that the most effective care is provided to elderly patients. By staying informed, certified, and connected, Geriatric Health Care Administrators can remain ahead and qualified in their field.

You may want to check Geriatric Mental Health Nurse, Geriatrics Mental Health Counselor, and Geriatrics Home Care Specialist for alternative.

Job Description

Develop and implement long-term care plans for elderly patients.
Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of geriatric health care services.
Create and maintain records of patient care plans and progress.
Collaborate with other healthcare professionals to ensure appropriate care is provided.
Develop policies and procedures related to geriatric health care.
Monitor and coordinate the delivery of medical services for geriatric patients.
Manage financial resources associated with geriatric health care programs.
Facilitate communication between patients, families, and health care providers.
Research and analyze patient data to identify trends in health care needs.
Educate staff and patients on geriatric health care practices.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of gerontological health care principles and practices
Understanding of legal and regulatory requirements related to gerontological health care
Ability to develop and implement effective gerontological health care programs
Expertise in budgeting, financial management, and personnel management
Demonstrated ability to lead, manage, and motivate staff
Ability to coordinate and develop patient care plans
Demonstrated problem-solving, decision-making, and conflict resolution skills
Excellent interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills
Knowledge of the latest technology and information systems used in gerontological health care
Ability to collaborate with other health care professionals
Understanding of issues related to aging and end-of-life care

Good geriatric health care administrators must possess a wide range of skills in order to effectively manage the needs of elderly individuals. One of the most important skills a geriatric health care administrator should have is the ability to empathize and connect with the elderly population. This includes being able to understand their unique needs, feelings and concerns.

geriatric health care administrators must be able to communicate effectively with staff, families, and other professionals in order to ensure the best care for their elderly patients. Furthermore, they must be able to develop strategies to meet the varied needs of their patients and adhere to relevant policies and regulations. They must also be knowledgeable about the latest research and developments in geriatric care and be able to develop innovative approaches to care.

Finally, geriatric health care administrators must have excellent problem-solving skills in order to deal with the various challenges they will face in their day-to-day work. With these skills, geriatric health care administrators can ensure quality, compassionate care for elderly individuals.

Geriatric Pharmacist, Geriatric Rehabilitation Specialist, and Geriatrics Behavioral Health Technician are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have managing geriatric healthcare programs?
How would you go about creating a plan for providing quality care to elderly patients?
What strategies have you used to ensure compliance with state and federal regulations?
How do you handle difficult conversations with the families of elderly patients?
What challenges have you faced in developing cost-effective care plans?
What have been the most successful initiatives you have implemented to improve patient outcomes?
How do you keep up with advances in geriatric healthcare?
How have you developed relationships with other healthcare professionals to enhance care for elderly patients?
Describe a time when you had to make a difficult decision related to geriatric care.
How do you handle budgeting for geriatric healthcare programs?

Common Tools in Industry

Care Coordination Software. A software system designed to facilitate and streamline the coordination of care for elderly patients within a health care setting. (e. g. Care Team Connect)
Medication Management Software. A software program that helps health care administrators manage medications for elderly patients. (e. g. MedTracker)
Population Health Management Programs. Programs that use data-driven strategies to identify and manage health risks among elderly patients. (e. g. Health Catalyst)
Clinical Decision Support Systems. Software systems that provide clinicians with evidence-based clinical guidelines, alerts, and other decision tools to help them make the best decisions for their elderly patients. (e. g. UpToDate)
Electronic Medical Records (EMR) Systems. Computer systems that allow health care administrators to store, track, and access patient medical records electronically. (e. g. Epic)
Resource Management Software. Software programs designed to track and manage resources, such as staff or supplies, within a health care facility or organization. (e. g. Resource On Demand)
Telemedicine Platforms. Web-based platforms that enable health care administrators to provide remote medical care to elderly patients via video or audio calls. (e. g. Teladoc)
Social Media Platforms. Online platforms that enable health care administrators to connect with elderly patients and provide them with personalized support and information. (e. g. Twitter)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Geriatrics Society
Alliance for Aging Research
National Council on Aging
American Association of Homes and Services for the Aging
Society for Post-Acute and Long-Term Care Medicine
National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers
National Association of Long Term Care Administrator Boards
National Adult Day Services Association
The National Guardianship Association
Alzheimer's Association

We also have Geriatric Psychologist, Geriatric Activities Director, and Geriatrics Clinical Research Coordinator jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Gerontology. The study of the biological, psychological, and social aspects of aging.
Ageism. Discrimination against or stereotyping of older people.
Long-term Care. Health care and support services for individuals who need assistance with activities of daily living due to age, disability, or illness.
Home Care. Services provided to individuals in their own homes, such as nursing care, physical therapy, and other medical services.
Assisted Living. A type of long-term care facility that provides both medical and custodial care to elderly individuals.
Hospice Care. End-of-life care that focuses on comfort rather than cure.
Elderly Abuse. Any form of abuse (physical, emotional, financial, etc. ) suffered by an elderly person.
Medicare/Medicaid. Health insurance programs provided by the federal government for the elderly and those with low incomes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average salary of a Geriatric Health Care Administrator?

According to PayScale, the average salary for a Geriatric Health Care Administrator is approximately $72,000 per year.

What qualifications are needed to become a Geriatric Health Care Administrator?

To become a Geriatric Health Care Administrator, one typically requires a bachelor's degree in health care administration, nursing or a related field. Additionally, most employers prefer at least two years of experience working in geriatric health care.

What is the job outlook for Geriatric Health Care Administrators?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that job opportunities for health services managers, including Geriatric Health Care Administrators, will grow by 18% from 2018 to 2028.

What duties and responsibilities does a Geriatric Health Care Administrator typically have?

Typical duties and responsibilities of a Geriatric Health Care Administrator include developing and managing budgets and policies, overseeing staff training and development, overseeing quality assurance and regulatory compliance, and collaborating with other health care professionals.

What are the benefits of being a Geriatric Health Care Administrator?

The benefits of being a Geriatric Health Care Administrator include having an opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of elderly patients, working in a variety of settings such as long-term care facilities, hospitals, and outpatient clinics, and having the potential to grow professionally.