Welfare of elderly no more a far cry

Manav Mander

Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, April 23

To strengthen the national programme for the health care of the elderly, the Health Department has issued few instructions to the district hospitals.

Under this programme, a separate OPD will be started for senior citizens. This OPD will be held on every Tuesday and Saturday for the patients above 60 years of age.

A medical officer, staff nurse and a counsellor will be deputed for this OPD and a separate register will also be maintained for senior citizens. Name, designation, contact number and e-mail of the senior citizens will be recorded in the register.

A circular issued to the civil surgeons regarding this further mentions that a person will be deputed at the door step of the hospital who will accompany the senior citizens to the OPD and drop them back. A wheel chair will also be kept at the entrance in case anybody needs it.

A separate window will be made for the senior citizens at the OPD registration window and free OPD slip of a different colour will be given to the senior citizens for easy identification of the elderly.

The circular issued by additional chief secretary, health and family welfare further mentions that lab tests, medicines, physiotherapy, aids and appliances will be given free of cost to the senior citizens.

It has also been asked to keep two beds reserved for senior citizens in every ward and “reserved for senior citizens” on the wall at the back of the beds.

Hospitals have also been asked to get NGOs involved in this programme as it would help in enhancing the activities under the programme.

Despite repeated attempts, Senior Medical Officer of civil hospital Dr Geeta could not be contacted for comments regarding the arrangements made at District civil hospital related to senior citizens.