The New Statesman | UK politics and culture Addressing the dementia diagnosis waiting game | Sponsored
Jun 28, 2025
Samantha Benham-Hermetz, Executive Director at Alzheimer’s Research UK, and Vanessa Raymont, Consultant Psychiatrist at the University of Oxford, tackle the pressing issue of dementia diagnosis delays in the UK. They reveal the distress caused by long wait times and advocate for early diagnosis as a crucial factor for better health outcomes. The duo also discusses innovative solutions, such as blood tests and digital technology, aimed at transforming the diagnosis process. They highlight the urgent need for reforms in memory services and government investment in dementia care.
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Urgent Need for Early Diagnosis
- One in three people with dementia in the UK never receive a formal diagnosis, and waiting times can extend up to a year.
- Early diagnosis brings relief, allows planning, and is critical due to dementia's progressive nature.
Advocate Early Symptom Assessment
- Encourage people to seek diagnosis as soon as symptoms like memory loss arise to reduce distress.
- Early diagnosis reduces healthcare strain and aids families in managing dementia progress.
Improve Memory Services Now
- The government must improve memory services to reduce waiting times and increase capacity.
- Rapid adoption of new technologies can enhance diagnostic efficiency and patient support in the NHS.