An online tool aimed at helping people with dementia access specialist care in their local area has been launched by the Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP).
Produced in collaboration with the Alzheimer’s Society and designed by GPs and other primary care staff, the tool gives clinical commissioning groups and other local organisations a way of bringing together information for patients within their area.
Topics included in the tool include:
– Understanding dementia.
– Memory worries.
– The diagnostic process.
– Post-diagnostic support.
– Carer health.
– Planning for the future.
It has been designed to reflect the patient’s needs throughout the course of the disease, from the early diagnosis to the late onset of dementia, according to the RCGP.
GPs can use the Department of Health-funded tool to refer patients to the best care to meet their needs during the progression of dementia.
Chief executive of the Alzheimer’s Society, Jeremy Hughes said: “This roadmap will help GPs support their patients as they navigate their dementia journey. By signposting to support in the local community, it will help to ensure no one has to face dementia alone.”
Secretary of State for Health, Jeremy Hunt said: “This is an important tool that will help doctors and other healthcare professionals make sure people get specialist help and support in their area.”
This is supplemented by other resources such as local information and services for patients, memory clinics, hospitals, care homes and specialist residential housing.
Chair of the RCGP, Dr Maureen Baker said: “We thank our partners at the Department of Health and Alzheimer’s Society for their help in creating this innovative resource.”
