Olufemi Banjoko - MD

Geriatrics Fellowship: University of Alabama
Birmingham, AL
2003

Certification: American Board of Internal Medicine
2003

Certification: Certificate of Added Qualification in Geriatric Medicine
2004

BS: University of Lagos - Akoka
1988

Internal Medicine Internship/Residency: Columbia University at Harlem Hospital Center
New York, NY

2002

Certification: American Board of Hospice and Palliative Medicine
2005

American Medical Association; American Medical Directors Association; American Geriatrics Society;

Tremendous improvements in medical technology have led to Americans living longer. 85 year olds and above are becoming our fastest growing population in the country. As a result, never before thought about medical issues are arising. Training in New York City, one sees a vast array of illnesses. Interestingly though, over 55% of the inpatient admissions were patients older than 65. I found that most physicians were unfamiliar with medical issues pertaining to the elderly. Of note, complete geriatric assessments were rarely carried out and social issues unique to the elderly were largely ignored. I believe that everyone is in charge of his or her own health. A physicians role is that of a personal adviser. This philosophy empowers patients to take control of their health. The best health outcomes are achieved when patients work together with the health care team to come up with the best care plan that suits their own lifestyle. As a geriatrician, I find this approach especially appealing to the older adults. They often have good insight into what works for them. All I have to do is be patient, sit back and listen.