Current Status and Problems of Geriatric Care in Mongolia

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Intensive aging of the population leads to an increase in the need for geriatric care. AIM: To analyze the state and problems of providing geriatric care to the population of Mongolia. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A content analysis of the scientific literature characterizing the development of the geriatric service in Mongolia in the historical aspect, was carried out. Using a specially designed evaluation card-questionnaire, an expert opinion was obtained from 36 profile specialists (doctors and nurses) from geriatric departments (offices) on the state and problems of providing geriatric care to the population. RESULTS: It was found that 36.1% of respondents are not satisfied with the material and technical base of their medical organization, 33.3% rather no than yes, only 30.6% of respondents gave a positive answer. The shortage of gerontological equipment was most often noted, especially of equipment for the rehabilitation and safety of the elderly and senile. According to 55.6% of geriatric specialists who took part in the survey, it is necessary to rework and expand the existing standards for the provision of geriatric care. The expediency of holding a school for elderly and senile patients on an outpatient basis was reported by 51.6% of respondents, 48.4% of respondents believed that this should be done in a hospital. Geriatric specialists were found not to be actively involved in continuing professional education. CONCLUSION: Thus, the development of proposals for improving the organization, increasing the efficiency and accessibility of geriatric care to the urban and rural population of Mongolia is of great medical and social importance.