The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Geriatric Medicine (Dip GM) is a specialised qualification designed for healthcare professionals who are committed to advancing their expertise in the care and management of older adults. This programme focuses on equipping learners with advanced knowledge and skills in geriatric assessment, chronic disease management, frailty, cognitive disorders, palliative care, and ethical decision-making within elderly care.
Unlike entry-level qualifications, this diploma is not intended for fresh candidates. It is specifically structured for experienced professionals in healthcare, medicine, and allied fields who wish to enhance their career prospects, expand their knowledge base, and strengthen their Continuing Professional Development (CPD). By undertaking this qualification, learners will gain a deeper understanding of the complexities associated with ageing populations and develop the competencies required to deliver safe, evidence-based, and patient-centred care.
Centres delivering this qualification must ensure that training is facilitated by competent and highly qualified staff who hold expertise in geriatric medicine and related disciplines. They must also provide learners with access to the latest learning resources, clinical case studies, and appropriate facilities to support both theoretical and practical components of the programme. High standards of teaching, assessment, and learner support are essential to ensure that participants achieve success and apply their learning effectively in real-world practice.
The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Geriatric Medicine (Dip GM) is an ideal choice for professionals looking to refine their expertise, improve healthcare outcomes for older adults, and progress in their medical careers with confidence.
Course Contents of QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Geriatric Medicine (Dip GM):
The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Geriatric Medicine (Dip GM) consists of a structured set of study units designed to provide learners with in-depth and comprehensive knowledge. The qualification includes a total of 1200 Total Qualification Time (TQT), 600 Guided Learning Hours (GLH), and awards 120 credits.
| Unit Ref# | Unit Title | Credits | GLH | TQT |
| QC27178- 1 | Advanced Principles of Geriatric Medicine and Ageing Physiology | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC27178-2 | Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment and Clinical Decision-Making | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC27178-3 | Management of Chronic Diseases, Frailty, and Multimorbidity in Older Adults | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC27178-4 | Cognitive Disorders, Dementia, and Mental Health in Geriatric Medicine | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC27178-5 | Palliative Care, Ethical Decision-Making, and End-of-Life Management | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC27178-6 | Research, Evidence-Based Practice, and Professional Development in Geriatric Medicine | 20 | 100 | 200 |
Entry Requirements for the QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Geriatric Medicine (Dip GM):
- Minimum Age
Learners must be at least 21 years of age at the time of enrolment. - Educational Background
A relevant Level 5 qualification in medicine, nursing, health sciences, or a related discipline is required. Equivalent international qualifications may also be considered. - Experience
Applicants should have professional experience working in healthcare, ideally with exposure to elderly patient care, clinical practice, or related medical environments. - Language Proficiency
Learners must demonstrate proficiency in English, with strong reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills to effectively engage with advanced medical terminology and academic content. - Commitment to CPD
This qualification is designed for professionals dedicated to Continuing Professional Development (CPD), career advancement, and expanding expertise in geriatric medicine. - Access to Required Resources
Learners must have access to a suitable learning environment, clinical case materials, digital resources, and reliable internet connection to support effective study and research.
Meeting these entry requirements ensures learners are well-prepared to successfully complete the diploma, enhance their professional skills, and contribute to high-quality care in geriatric medicine.
Learning Outcomes for the QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Geriatric Medicine (Dip GM):
Advanced Principles of Geriatric Medicine and Ageing Physiology
- Understand the physiological changes associated with ageing and their impact on health
- Analyse the biological, social, and environmental factors influencing ageing
- Apply advanced principles of geriatric medicine in clinical practice
Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment and Clinical Decision-Making
- Conduct comprehensive geriatric assessments using multidisciplinary approaches
- Develop clinical decision-making skills tailored to older adults with complex needs
- Integrate functional, cognitive, and social evaluations into patient care
Management of Chronic Diseases, Frailty, and Multimorbidity in Older Adults
- Evaluate approaches to managing chronic diseases and multiple conditions in the elderly
- Apply evidence-based strategies for identifying and managing frailty
- Design personalised care plans for patients with multimorbidity
Cognitive Disorders, Dementia, and Mental Health in Geriatric Medicine
- Assess and manage cognitive disorders including dementia and delirium
- Understand the impact of mental health conditions on older adults
- Implement strategies for supporting cognitive and psychological wellbeing
Palliative Care, Ethical Decision-Making, and End-of-Life Management
- Apply principles of palliative and end-of-life care in geriatric medicine
- Address ethical challenges in decision-making for elderly patients
- Support patients and families through compassionate communication and holistic care
Research, Evidence-Based Practice, and Professional Development in Geriatric Medicine
- Critically evaluate research and its application to geriatric practice
- Apply evidence-based approaches to improve clinical outcomes in elderly care
- Enhance professional competence through continuous learning and development
The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Geriatric Medicine (Dip GM) is specifically designed for healthcare professionals who are actively involved in the care of older adults and wish to advance their expertise in this specialised field. It is not intended for fresh candidates, but for experienced practitioners who aim to expand their knowledge, refine their clinical skills, and progress in their careers.
This course is ideal for:
- Doctors, physicians, and medical practitioners working in hospitals, clinics, or community healthcare who manage elderly patients
- Nurses and advanced nurse practitioners specialising in geriatric or elderly care
- Allied health professionals such as physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and pharmacists engaged in the treatment and support of older adults
- Healthcare managers and coordinators responsible for developing and overseeing geriatric care services
- Professionals aiming to enhance their Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and pursue senior-level roles within geriatric medicine
The programme suits learners who are committed to delivering high-quality, patient-centred care to the ageing population while addressing the complex challenges of chronic disease, frailty, dementia, and end-of-life care. By completing this diploma, professionals can strengthen their competence, improve patient outcomes, and position themselves as leaders in geriatric medicine.
Centres delivering the QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Geriatric Medicine (Dip GM) must ensure that high standards of teaching, assessment, and learner support are maintained. To effectively deliver this qualification, centres must meet the following requirements:
- Qualified Staff: Tutors, trainers, and assessors must be appropriately qualified in geriatric medicine, healthcare, or related disciplines, with substantial clinical experience and up-to-date knowledge of current best practices.
- Assessment Competence: Assessors must have the expertise to evaluate learners’ practical and theoretical skills accurately, ensuring fair and consistent assessment outcomes.
- Learning Resources: Centres must provide access to comprehensive learning materials, clinical case studies, textbooks, and digital resources to support advanced study in geriatric medicine.
- Practical Facilities: Where applicable, learners should have access to clinical environments, simulation facilities, or observation opportunities to develop hands-on assessment and care skills.
- Quality Assurance: Robust internal quality assurance processes must be in place to maintain the integrity, consistency, and reliability of teaching and assessment.
- Learner Support Systems: Centres must offer academic and pastoral support to guide learners throughout their studies, including advice on CPD, career progression, and practical application of skills.
- Technology and Accessibility: Centres should provide access to digital platforms and online learning tools to facilitate flexible, accessible learning for all participants.
- Compliance: All delivery and assessment must adhere to relevant educational standards, health and safety regulations, and data protection requirements.
Meeting these requirements ensures that centres provide a high-quality learning environment, enabling learners to achieve their goals and excel in the specialised field of geriatric medicine.