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IGNOU PGDGM Admission 2025 | Geriatric Medicine Diploma Guide

IGNOU Post Graduate Diploma in Geriatric Medicine admission is designed for MBBS physicians who wish to receive structured training regarding the medical, emotional, social and psychological dimensions of ageing. India is experiencing a rapid increase in its elderly population. This has created a growing need for doctors who understand ageing and the different ways geriatric diseases present themselves.

We meet many learners who wish to improve their understanding of geriatric assessment and chronic illness management among older adults. This diploma meets those needs through a strong and systematic academic format.

It helps MBBS physicians gain more confidence to handle age-related medical challenges. The course also develops a greater understanding of older health patterns, mental health issues, social vulnerabilities, and functional decline. It's offered by IGNOU School of Health Sciences, and is available in a distance learning mode. Learners can study at their own pace while still performing clinical duties.

We ensure that students are fully supported throughout the academic journey--from their first doubts to the final assessment. It is our goal to ensure that every student can navigate the process from zero to one hundred with clarity, confidence and planning.

Tentative Last Date: 31 Aug 2025 Duration: 1–3 Years MCI Recognised • CME

Why choose this Post Graduate Diploma in Geriatric Medicine program?

1. The Need for More Geriatric-Trained Doctors
India is undergoing a demographic change. As the population ages and life expectancy increases, more patients are presenting with health problems related to age. MBBS doctors frequently express the desire to have a more focused experience in geriatrics, despite having studied extensively. Through targeted learning, this diploma addresses that specific gap.
2. The Ageing Spectrum: A Guide for Doctors
The process of aging is much more complex than a simple decline in physical health. The term "aging" includes emotional shifts as well as social issues, challenges in communication, safety hazards, cognitive changes and family dynamics. It helps doctors better understand these various elements when it comes to assessing and treating older adults.
3. A Balanced Combination of Theoretical and Practical Training
Skill Development Centres are a key component of PGDGM. In real-life settings, doctors receive supervised geriatrics training. The doctors will gain a better understanding of the assessment and treatment techniques used for older patients, whether they are at home, in a hospital or in a community setting.
4. Suitable for all doctors, both in government and private health care
This diploma helps many MBBS physicians from government hospitals improve their geriatric knowledge and approach. The diploma is used to help private practitioners gain specific knowledge and skills for elderly care.
5. CME - Academic Recognition
The Medical Council of India has recognized this program as part of the Continuing Medical Education Program. The program is an excellent option for physicians who wish to pursue structured academic training without having their current clinical roles disrupted.
6. Enhance teamwork and communication skills
Doctors agree with the idea that dealing with elderly adults requires clear communication, patience, and strong coordination between families and healthcare workers. Through practical exercises and real-life case studies, the program assists learners in developing these abilities.

Highlights from the program

  • One-year postgraduate diploma
  • Exclusively designed for MBBS physicians
  • School of Health Sciences
  • English
  • Hands-on training and theory devoted to geriatrics
  • This includes clinical sessions and practical assessments, as well as district-level education..
  • This course is suitable for all doctors, whether they work in the hospital, primary health care, community-based practice or administration of healthcare.
  • The book covers medical, psychological and social aspects as well as ethical and policy concerns.
  • Distance Mode with Structured Practical Components

This program will prepare doctors to deal with the elderly's health issues in a mature, clear, and collaborative manner.

FeatureDetails
Programme CodePGDGM
Programme NamePost Graduate Diploma in Geriatric Medicine
SchoolSchool of Health Sciences, IGNOU
DurationMinimum 1 Year – Maximum 3 Years
MediumEnglish
EligibilityMBBS + Completed Internship
Total Credits36 (18 Theory + 18 Practical)
RecognitionMCI recognised for CME

What is the Post Graduate Diploma in Geriatric Medicine program?

The Post Graduate Diploma in Geriatric Medicine is a comprehensive program that focuses on geriatric medicine. It includes epidemiology, biochemical changes, prevention strategies, assessment and evaluation, clinical decision making, and more.

It is recognized that the elderly often behave differently from younger people. The symptoms of elderly patients may be vague or overlap, and they can also be masked due to chronic illnesses. You may see mobility restrictions, cognitive or emotional fluctuations, sensory changes, or a high level of dependency. The geriatric population is unique, and care must be provided in a structured manner.

IGNOU has designed this degree so that doctors can:

  • Develop familiarity with functional assessments
  • Understanding how ageing impacts vital systems
  • How to properly examine and care for elderly patients
  • Ageing and its prevention, including psychological, socio-economic, and rehabilitational aspects
  • In the clinic and community, learn how to manage common geriatric illnesses.
  • Working with multidisciplinary teams to provide elderly holistic care to the elderly
  • Learn about the ethical and legal concerns that older adults face.

The course is a combination of foundational and real-life clinical knowledge, so it's a valuable resource for clinics or hospitals.

Post Graduate Diploma in Geriatric Medicine Curriculum & Syllabus Overview

This curriculum comprises six courses: 3 theory and 3 practical, for a total of 36 credits. This structure moves from a foundation of knowledge in geriatrics to more advanced clinical understanding and hands-on experience.

Students begin by exploring the fundamentals of ageing. Next, they move on to geriatric concepts and finally, into practical settings, where they supervise elderly patients. It creates an environment where the theory guides practice, while practice improves clinical judgment.

Course Code Title of the Course Type of Course Credits
MME 104Basic GeriatricsTheory6
MME 105Clinical Geriatrics ITheory4
MME 106Clinical Geriatrics IITheory4
MMEL 104Basic Geriatrics PracticalPractical6
MMEL 105Clinical Geriatrics I PracticalPractical12
MMEL 106Orthopaedics PracticalPractical4
Total Credits36

Post Graduate Diploma in Geriatric Medicine Eligibility

Only:

  • The Medical Council of India recognises MBBS graduates
  • Successful intern doctors

The learners are already familiar with the basic principles of medicine and will be able to grasp any advanced content on geriatrics.

It is suitable for:

  • Government hospital doctors
  • Private practitioners
  • District medical officers
  • Doctors who handle community health
  • Preparing doctors for hospital leadership roles
  • Clinicians who are interested in the elderly health study
  • Medical educators

Post Graduate Diploma in Geriatric Medicine Objectives

This program includes several clinical and academic objectives. At the end of their studies, students should be able to:

  • Ageing: Understand the biological, epidemiological and demographic factors
  • Identification of the psychological, social and rehabilitative aspects in elderly care
  • Complete assessment of the patient, including history and physical examination, nutrition review, mental condition, sensory evaluation and functional capability.
  • Diagnose and treat acute and chronic geriatric illness in the clinic, community, and home settings.
  • Plan the transfer of elderly frail patients from hospitals to homes.
  • Work with multidisciplinary rehabilitation teams and support long-term care.
  • Take note of issues like elder rights, consent abuse and autonomy.
  • Learn about broader social issues such as loneliness, dependence, and safety concerns.

This aligns with the complexity of needs for an ageing society and supports doctors to make sensitive, informed decisions.

Learning Outcomes

Doctors will be able:

  • With confidence, conduct structured geriatric evaluations
  • Evidence-based diagnostic approaches for elderly patients
  • Multi-system interactions in ageing
  • Recognize the atypical presentation of older adults.
  • Working with physiotherapists. Social workers. Psychologists. And carers as part of a coordinated group
  • Clinical reasoning for long-term cases and palliative care
  • Improve your communication skills, patience and sensitivity when dealing with older patients
  • Learn about the ethics and legal framework for older adults.
  • Provide informed, holistic and respectful care in home, community settings and inpatients

These learning outcomes represent the unique combination of clinical experience, scientific understanding, and a human-centered approach.

Post Graduate Diploma in Geriatric Medicine Career Opportunities

The Diploma prepares MBBS physicians for multiple roles in various settings. There are many opportunities for doctors to explore.

1. Hospitals and Medical Colleges
Hospitals often need doctors who are trained in elderly care.
2. Primary Healthcare and Government Health Services
The ability of PHCs to care for elderly patients is strengthened through this program.
3. Community and Public Health Programs
The diploma will be useful to all doctors involved in programs related to the health of older people.
4. Elderly Care and Visits to the Home
Many private providers offer clinical home care services for elderly adults.
5. Elder Support and Long-term Care Facilities
The doctors who work at these centres can help elderly patients with chronic diseases or mobility issues.
6. The role of the teacher and trainer
In many institutions, medical educators with expertise in geriatrics are needed.
7. NGOs that support the elderly
They can also play advisory, research and strategic roles.
8. Clinical Research on Geriatrics
The Diploma provides a solid foundation for physicians interested in clinical ageing research.

This program doesn't restrict career options; it expands them based on the doctor's interests.

About Unnati education:

Our program guides learners from the very beginning. We are often approached by doctors who find distance learning overwhelming, especially when it is combined with clinical duties. We can help you by:

  • Explaining the academic component clearly
  • Guidance for the study program around work schedules
  • Clarifying the practical needs
  • Understanding course expectations and providing support
  • Encourage learners to be consistent in their evaluations and assignments.

It's simple. Our goal is to help physicians stay focused and calm while ensuring that they are able to complete the academic pathway without any stress. Our approach is simple: we help doctors stay organized and confident, ensuring they move through their entire academic path without stress.

Add-On courses

PGDGM graduates often pursue additional education in:

  • Studies on palliative health
  • Community health
  • Clinical nutrition
  • Counseling skills
  • Public health
  • Health management
  • Rehabilitation studies

Add-ons can help physicians improve their profiles based on long-term goals.

The Benefits of the Program

  • One-year postgraduate diploma
  • Designed for MBBS only
  • Theoretical and clinical approach that is strong
  • Train the Trainers at Designated Centres
  • Learners can benefit from structured learning programs in key geriatric areas.
  • The course is suitable for both doctors working in the public and private sectors.
  • The book covers medical, psychological, and social aspects of ageing.
  • Flexible distance-learning model
  • Develops communication skills and an interdisciplinary approach
  • Supports professional development for clinicians

FAQs

Q1. What is the eligibility to participate in this program?

Only MBBS graduates have successfully completed internships.

Q2. How long is PGDGM?

This diploma is completed in one year.

Q3. Is there a practical component to the program?

Yes. The doctors receive hands-on training in geriatrics at Skill Development Centres.

Q4. What will I be learning?

The course will cover ageing, chronic and acute illnesses, ethics, team-based support, and the assessment of geriatric patients.

Q5. Is this program open to working physicians?

Yes. This course is for physicians who are already practicing and want to enhance their skills.

Q6. Does knowledge of Geriatrics need to be acquired beforehand?

No. This program presents core geriatrics in a systematic way.

Q7. After completing PGDGM, what career opportunities are available?

In addition to hospitals and community health care services, doctors can also work at research centers, public health organizations, eldercare centers, or in teaching, research and other settings.

Conclusion

IGNOU Post Graduate Diploma in Geriatric Medicine admission offers MBBS physicians the opportunity to enhance their understanding of aging through extensive clinical and academic exposure. This diploma combines social science, medical knowledge, ethics, and clinical skills into a well-balanced package. The diploma will provide doctors with the confidence, clarity and direction they need to care for older adults in an ethical and professional manner. We can help doctors move from process 0 through 100 with ease, so that they are able to manage their academic and clinical obligations.

Ready to Start PGDGM 2025? Contact Unnati Now!

MBBS doctors — share your name, registration number, state & “PGDGM” — we’ll handle admission, practical scheduling, assignments & exams.

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