In just under a year since its launch in March 2024, the geriatric outpatient department (OPD) at Government Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) in Nagpur benefitted 31,899 elderly patients. Recognizing the unique health needs of seniors, the Department of Medical Education and Research directed all govt hospitals in Maharashtra to establish dedicated geriatric clinics. GMCH began the geriatric OPD service on March 5 and operates daily except on holidays, marking 75 years since its inception.
Dr. Atul Rajkondawar, head of the medicine department at GMCH, stated that the clinic sees around 150 to 200 patients daily, most with conditions like hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis. The clinic offers not just treatment, but proper medical guidance and continuity of care. While the govt hospital recommended a weekly model, GMCH decided to operate daily, with a focus on ful_ cumpluti l ensured that Nagpur’s elderly patients receive dedicated care for their widespread chronic conditions, such as frailty, falls, memory issues, polypharmacy, and mobility problems.
A 2022 study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that patients treated in structured geriatric outpatient clinics had better functional outcomes, fewer hospital admissions, and improved quality of life compared to those treated in general outpatient departments. Early diagnosis, personalized treatment plans, and regular follow-up can delay complications and support independent living among seniors. GMCH, under the leadership of Dean Dr. Raj Gajbhiye, has successfully implemented the geriatric OPD model. To get more insights and analysis, please subscribe to the newsletter and download the ETHealthworld app.
