Although geriatrics is recognised as an effective strategy in the secondary care of older people, adoption of the specialty has been variable in the developed world. Information is needed on factors that affect recruitment and retention of geriatricians.

Based on postal questionnaire survey undertaken in 2001, a largely identical survey was undertaken among all Finnish geriatricians (167 in active practice in 2008) in 2008. Items included work position, work satisfaction, and general views about delivery of care for older people.

A total of 112 physicians returned the 2008 questionnaire (60% of active specialists). The varied working profile and views about geriatricians’ status were largely similar to those in 2001. Half of all responders were employed by municipalities in primary care, 19% were employed by secondary or tertiary hospitals. The most important clinical settings for geriatricians were considered to be in memory clinics, rehabilitation and acute care. Most geriatricians (n=84, [75%]) considered either general practitioners (GP), or GPs with specific training in geriatrics to be the best option for the management of common problems of older patients in the community. In general, geriatricians were optimistic about their work and possibilities to influence, even more so than in 2001. The biggest challenge was perceived to increase and distribute geriatric medicine knowledge and skills in health care for older people.

Finnish geriatricians believe that geriatrics is a rewarding speciality. However, the incorporation of the principles and practice of geriatrics across other is viewed as a major challenge.