The National Human Rights Commission today asked the Medical Council of India and Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare to explore the possibility of introducing a new post-graduate level course in 'Gerontology' in medical colleges.
The directions were issued keeping in view the problems in old age and the need for providing dedicated facilities to senior citizens as required under Section 20 of the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007, according to an NHRC statement released today.
The Commission observed that with the passage of time, the percentage of aged persons in the country is likely to go up considerably and to deal with their problems, it is necessary that the healthcare system in the country should be well equipped.
Accordingly, the Commission in its notice to the Secretaries, Medical Council of India and the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has sought their response within eight weeks.
