Legislators have appealed to the government to establish university courses for the training of medical professionals, known as geriatricians, who specialize in treating older individuals. The call comes in response to the shortage of geriatricians, with just one currently documented in the country, stationed at the Mulago National Referral Hospital.
During a debate on the International Day for Older Persons, commemorated on October 1, 2023, Hon. Rachel Magoola (NRM, District Woman Representative, Bugweri) emphasized the pressing need for an increased number of geriatricians. She raised concerns about the scarcity of these specialized doctors in various regions, highlighting the emotional and physical challenges faced by older persons, such as loneliness, depression, and various health conditions that demand specialized medical care.
The discussion stemmed from a statement by the Minister of State for Gender, Labour, and Social Development (Elderly Affairs), Hon. Dominic Gidudu, who acknowledged the existence of only one geriatrician in the country. He also disclosed that efforts were underway to introduce specialized courses in universities aimed at improving healthcare for older individuals. Makerere University School of Public Health has already initiated a postgraduate geriatrics course to equip doctors with the skills required for the diagnosis and treatment of health conditions affecting older persons.
Hon. Wilson Kajwengye, the MP for Nyabushozi County, proposed granting special admission preferences for students pursuing geriatric medicine courses at universities and their subsequent deployment by the Ministry of Health upon completion of their training.
Dr. Nicholas Kamara, the MP for Kabale Municipality, underscored the heightened vulnerability of the elderly to non-communicable diseases such as diabetes and hypertension, which often result in blindness, amputations, and more severe conditions like stroke.
The MPs also recognized the social exclusion faced by older persons and the disputes over property that contribute to depression and other mental health issues. To address these concerns, they suggested the training and deployment of Village Health Teams (VHTs) to provide palliative care. Additionally, they proposed the establishment of village clubs for the elderly, where simple exercises and activities like dances and sports could help alleviate depression and promote well-being.
Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, the Minister of Information, Communication, Technology, and National Guidance, emphasized the importance of specialized medical care for the growing elderly population. He noted the increasing life expectancy, which indicates a higher number of older individuals in the future, making the training of geriatric doctors even more crucial. Dr. Baryomunsi revealed that a bill related to older persons had been submitted to the Cabinet, urging MPs to support it when it is presented for consideration.
