What is a Geriatrician?

Susan Levy, M.D.

A geriatrician is a medical doctor who has additional training and experience in assessing, diagnosing and treating the problems that are especially common in people as they age. Often the challenges involve chronic, complex medical conditions. These can be physical, psychological and social issues. Geriatricians also encourage routine care and wellness regiments.

Geriatricians are board-certified in internal or family medicine and have a minimum of one year of clinical training in geriatric medicine.  Some other specialists may also take additional training in geriatrics and specialize in geriatric psychology, cardiology and oncology.

Gerontologists have advanced degrees in the study of aging but are not physicians.

If you are wondering where can find a geriatrician in your area, you can call:
American Geriatrics Society 212-308-1414
The American Board of Internal Medicine 215-446-3500

Internet sources include:

MedLinePlus

WebMd

LifeBridge Health

Susan Levy, M.D., is the Vice President of Medical Affairs and Medical Director at Levindale Hebrew Geriatric Center and Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland. Dr. Levy graduated from the University of Maryland School of Medicine and did a residency at the Medical University of South Carolina. She completed a geriatric fellowship at Mount Sinai Medical Center. Dr. Levy is board certified and her expertise is in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Medicine. Dr. Levy serves as President of Maryland Medical Directors Association (MMDA) and is an American Medical Directors Association (AMDA) Certified Medical Director (CMD).