Barriers to the identification of frailty in hospital: a survey of UK clinicians

Despite numerous national campaigns, frailty remains under-recognised in the hospital setting. We performed a survey of hospital-based clinicians across the UK to identify barriers to the identification and best practice management of frailty in hospital. A total of 402 clinicians were surveyed across a range of grades, specialties and hospitals. Responses highlighted variable awareness and personal understanding of frailty, particularly among junior doctors and clinicians in non-medical specialties. Although 74% of responders agreed frailty assessments should be undertaken for all older people admitted to hospital, only 36% felt this was currently feasible with available resources. Free-text responses highlighted limited education, the perceived subjectivity of frailty assessments, scepticism as to their utility in the hospital setting, and deficiencies in service provision. This was the first survey of UK hospital clinicians regarding frailty assessments. Results highlight multiple areas for improvement and engagement.