Preventive Medication Use in the Elderly

Assessing Preventive Medication Use in Older People Attending Various Clinical Settings

Degree type

PhD

Closing date

1 June 2024

Campus

Hobart

Citizenship requirement

Domestic

About the research project

Medication safety is a national health priority for Australia. The use of preventive medicines for older individuals aged 65 years and older poses significant challenges as these medications are commonly prescribed to prevent diseases and promote health benefits. Preventive medicine focuses on reducing the impact of disease by preventing its occurrence (primary prevention), slowing its progression (secondary prevention), and managing its complications (tertiary prevention). In Australia, there is a lack of insight into the real-world prescribing trends of preventive medicines, particularly in older people and persons with limited life expectancy. The utility of preventive treatment for individuals with a limited life expectancy, such as those in advanced stages of cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or heart failure, remains uncertain.

The aim of this research is to conduct a comprehensive assessment of preventive medication use and management in older individuals and those with limited life expectancy attending diverse clinical settings (hospital, aged care, and primary care). The study aims to explore the prevalence, patterns, and determinants of preventive medication use among this population to improve healthcare strategies and outcomes for older adults. The secondary aim of this study is to assess the prescription, continuation and discontinuation of preventive medication use. Also, it will explore the barriers to deprescribing preventive medications in Australia.

This retrospective cohort study will be conducted over a defined period using multiple databases. Advanced statistical techniques will be used to analyse the quantitative data, including multivariate regression models, survival analysis, and latent class analysis. Thematic analysis will be conducted for the qualitative data. Integrated analysis will be performed to triangulate findings from multiple data sources.

Primary Supervisor

Meet Dr Mohammed Salahudeen

Funding

Applicants will be considered for a Research Training Program (RTP) scholarship or Tasmania Graduate Research Scholarship (TGRS) which, if successful, provides:

  • a living allowance stipend of $32,192 per annum (2024 rate, indexed annually) for 3.5 years
  • a relocation allowance of up to $2,000
  • a tuition fees offset covering the cost of tuition fees for up to four years (domestic applicants only)

If successful, international applicants will receive a University of Tasmania Fees Offset for up to four years.

As part of the application process you may indicate if you do not wish to be considered for scholarship funding.

Other funding opportunities and fees

For further information regarding other scholarships on offer, and the various fees of undertaking a research degree, please visit our Scholarships and fees on research degrees page.

Eligibility

Applicants should review the Higher Degree by Research minimum entry requirements.

Ensure your eligibility for the scholarship round by referring to our Key Dates.

Additional eligibility criteria specific to this project/scholarship:

  • Applicants must be able to undertake the project on-campus

Selection Criteria

The project is competitively assessed and awarded.  Selection is based on academic merit and suitability to the project as determined by the College.

Additional essential selection criteria specific to this project:

  • A degree with a substantial research project (e.g. Research Masters' degree, Masters' degree with a thesis component, or Bachelor's degree with first-class Honours)
  • Excellent analysis and writing skills, demonstrated by publications in peer-reviewed journals.
  • Demonstrate some understanding of statistical methods and proficiency with any data analysis software

Additional desirable selection criteria specific to this project:

  • Exceptional interpersonal communication skills and demonstrated ability to work in teams
  • Evidence of project management and organisation ability, including the ability to fulfil goals and deliver outcomes within a specified period

Application process

  1. Select your project, and check that you meet the eligibility and selection criteria, including citizenship;
  2. Contact Dr Mohammed Salahudeen to discuss your suitability and the project's requirements; and
  3. In your application:
    • Copy and paste the title of the project from this advertisement into your application. If you don’t correctly do this your application may be rejected.
    • Submit a signed supervisory support form, a CV including contact details of 2 referees and your project research proposal.
  4. Apply prior to 1 June 2024.

Full details of the application process can be found under the 'How to apply' section of the Research Degrees website.

Following the closing date applications will be assessed within the College. Applicants should expect to receive notification of the outcome by email by the advertised outcome date.

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