Determinants of Acceptance into Inpatient Geriatric Rehabilitation Programmes in Malta: A Regression Analysis

With limited bed availability at Malta’s state-run rehabilitation hospital, efficient and accurate assessment of frail older adults is essential for appropriate inpatient geriatric rehabilitation (GR) admissions. This study aimed to identify key predictors influencing admission decisions for inpatient GR programmes in Malta. Prospective data were collected from 250 patients aged 60 and over. In total, 83 predictors, including demographic details, clinical history, functional levels and social factors, were analysed against admission outcomes. Logistic regression analysis, mainly univariate analysis, followed by multivariate analysis with backward stepwise elimination, was used to determine significant predictors. Seven key predictors were identified, which shed light on the decision-making processes of the assessing specialists, highlighting the importance of embracing the ICF model rather than relying solely on medical criteria. These predictors reflect the WHO ICF and CGA frameworks, supporting a holistic, patient-centred approach. They informed the development of a digital tool, incorporating a future predictive model to guide GR admission decisions in Malta, aiming to facilitate the delivery of stratified and personalised care by enabling clinicians to select a care pathway based on the patient’s potential health trajectory in response to rehabilitation interventions.