Welcome

The term geriatrics was coined in the early 1900s, and is derived from geras (old age) and iatrikos (relating to the physician). While family physicians, general internists, and others provide care for many older adults—and do it very well—geriatricians focus on the relationships between disease management and functional status and quality-of-life.

Established in July 2006, the Department of Geriatrics works with faculty members across the Boonshoft School of Medicine to incorporate the principles of geriatric medicine into the curricula. Members of the department also participate in the education of family medicine and internal medicine residents. A fellowship in geriatric medicine is being developed.

Our current research activities include interdisciplinary work on falls, delirium, sepsis, and caregiver advocacy. A major research goal for the department is the development of a comprehensive center for the study of geriatric trauma.

Our physicians serve patients throughout the Dayton community.

Our Physicians:

Larry W. Lawhorne, M.D., Chair and Professor, Department of Geriatrics
Phil Whitecar, M.D., Associate Professor of Family Medicine and Geriatrics
Mike Ballester, M.D., Assistant Professor of Emergency Medicine and Geriatrics
Gordana Gataric, M.D., Assistant Professor of Geriatrics
Steven K. Swedlund, M.D., Assistant Professor of Geriatrics and Fellowship Director

Main Office Contact Information:

One Elizabeth Place, Suite 110
627 S. Edwin C. Moses Blvd.
Dayton, OH 45408
Academic Issues: (937) 331-9167
Fax: (937) 331-9169

Academic Department | Fellowship Program
Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine