Physicians' perceptions of the Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction (TIMI) risk score in older adults with acute myocardial infarction

•We examine physicians' perceptions of the TIMI risk scores in older adults with AMI.•The models' strengths included familiarity, ease of use, and validation.•The models' limitations included a lack of geriatric-specific risk factors and scope.•New AMI risk models that incorporate geriatric-specific risk factors are needed.

ObjectivesTo evaluate physician-perceived strengths and limitations of the Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction (TIMI) risk scores for use in older adults with acute myocardial infarction (AMI).BackgroundThe TIMI risk scores are risk stratification models developed to estimate mortality risk for patients hospitalized for AMI. However, these models were developed and validated in cohorts underrepresenting older adults (≥75 years).MethodsQualitative study using semi-structured telephone interviews and the constant comparative method for analysis.ResultsTwenty-two physicians completed interviews ranging 10–30 min (mean = 18 min). Median sample age was 37 years, with a median of 11.5 years of clinical experience. TIMI strengths included familiarity, ease of use, and validation. Limitations included a lack of risk factors relevant to older adults and model scope and influence.ConclusionsPhysicians report that the TIMI models, while widely used in clinical practice, have limitations when applied to older adults. New risk models are needed to guide AMI treatment in this population.