There are 4 up-to-date clinical pathways available to assist GPs:
- Cognitive impairment and dementia – This is the main clinical pathway outlining assessment, management and referral for people experiencing memory loss or who have been diagnosed with dementia.
- Behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) – This pathway outlines assessment, management and referral related to non-cognitive symptoms of dementia such as aggression, agitation, depression, wandering and disinhibited behaviours.
- Five-minute neurological exam for patients with possible dementia – This is a focused neurological examination suitable for a general practice stting.
- Medications for dementia – These outline use of cholinesterase inhibitors in management of certain types of dementia.
Referral pages on HealthPathways have also been updated to include information about referring to local cognitive, dementia and memory service (CDAMS) clinics for diagnosis, as well as services to assist with behaviour management. Also added are resources such as national helplines, carer support services, respite providers and local support groups.