Federal Government of Nigeria to Establish Geriatric Centres for the Elderly

Federal Ministry of Health has disclosed that it will establish six regional Geriatric Centres in tertiary hospitals with a view to improving the health status of the Elderly in Nigeria. The centers would be manned by personnel who are mainly skilled in the treatment of illnesses that afflict elderly patients.

Geriatric care management is the process of planning and coordinating care of the elderly and others with physical and/or mental impairments to meet their long term care needs, improve their quality of life, and maintain their independence for as long as possible.

Dr Saidu Dumbulwa, the Coordinator, Healthcare Package for Improving Quality Care on Ageing Population in Nigeria, told the News Agency of Nigeria that President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the project. He recalled that Mr President has earlier approved the allocation of 1% of Consolidated Revenue Fund to deliver healthcare to the vulnerable population, mainly children, women and elderly.

The Dr also disclosed that 50% of the Fund will go to the National Health Insurance Scheme, to procure health services and insurance for the vulnerable groups.