Rohtak varsity proposes Geriatrics Health Card for regular check-ups of elderly
After launching specialist OPD services at four Urban Public Health Centres (UPHCs) once a week, Pt BD Sharma University of Health Sciences (UHS), Rohtak, has now proposed the introduction of a “Geriatrics Health Card” to the Haryana Government. The initiative aims to ensure regular health check-ups for senior citizens across the state by training doctors at Community Health Centres (CHCs) and Primary Health Centres (PHCs) to provide quarterly health screenings.
Dr Kundan Mittal, Medical Superintendent (MS) of PGIMS, Rohtak, highlighted that a large number of elderly patients from across the state visit PGIMS for treatment and follow-ups.
“Many of these patients can be treated locally at their nearest CHCs and PHCs if trained doctors are available to provide regular health check-ups. This approach will eliminate the need for elderly patients to travel long distances to PGIMS for treatment," he explained.
He said that regular health check-ups at local healthcare centres would be highly beneficial for senior citizens, as many of them travel alone to PGIMS because their children are often occupied with work. Given the growing elderly population in Haryana, timely health monitoring is crucial for preventing emergencies and ensuring early intervention.
“To facilitate this initiative, the UHS authorities have proposed a 'Geriatrics Health Card,' similar to the immunisation cards for children. This will help senior citizens track their health history and ensure consistent medical care. We have already designed a sample of the card and developed a detailed training plan for doctors at CHCs and PHCs in collaboration with the Health Department,” Dr Mittal added.
Dr HK Aggarwal, Vice-Chancellor of UHS, emphasised that the initiative aims not only to monitor and detect health issues early but also to improve the overall quality of life for senior citizens.
“The goal is to promote healthier ageing and reduce the burden on emergency healthcare systems by ensuring that elderly patients receive timely medical attention,” he said.
