Nagpur: In a commendable move towards enhancing healthcare accessibility for the elderly population, the Government Medical College and Hospital (GMCH), Nagpur, inaugurated a Special Geriatric Outpatient Department (OPD) on Tuesday.
This initiative is a response to the rising demographic of senior citizens in Maharashtra, constituting approximately 12% of the state’s 12.5 crore population. Recognizing the unique health challenges faced by older adults, GMCH aims to streamline their medical care through specialized services.
The Geriatric OPD, located within the GMCH campus, is envisioned to cater specifically to the healthcare needs of the aging population. Staffed with specialists from diverse fields including surgery, medicine, gynaecology, and orthopaedics, the department ensures comprehensive and tailored care for elderly patients. This multidisciplinary approach acknowledges the varied health concerns associated with aging and provides a holistic solution.
A key feature of the newly established Geriatric OPD is a separate registration room dedicated to senior citizens. This thoughtful provision aims to simplify the registration process, recognizing the potential challenges older adults may face while navigating administrative procedures. The dedicated space intends to make the overall experience less stressful for elderly patients, promoting a more patient-friendly healthcare environment.
A notable aspect of GMCH’s initiative is the commitment to removing financial barriers for seniors. All consultations and treatments offered at the Geriatric OPD will be provided free of charge. By eliminating the cost burden associated with healthcare services, GMCH ensures that economic constraints do not hinder elderly individuals from seeking essential medical attention.
This groundbreaking step by GMCH aligns with the broader goal of creating inclusive and age-sensitive healthcare services. The Geriatric OPD is poised to make a positive impact on the lives of senior citizens in Maharashtra, enhancing their access to quality medical care and addressing the unique health challenges associated with aging. The initiative sets a precedent for other healthcare institutions to prioritize and adapt their services to meet the evolving needs of an aging population.
The inauguration ceremony was held on Tuesday and was graced by the presence of Dr Raj Gajbhiye, Dean of GMCH, Nagpur. Deputy Deans Dr Devendra Mahore and Dr Uday Narlawar, Medical Superintendent Dr Avinash Gawande, professors, and heads of other clinical departments were also present.
