Memory Assessment Service

The Memory Assessment Service (MAS) is geriatrician (a doctor who specialises in the care of older people) led service.

We provide early diagnosis, treatment, advice and referral services for people under the age of 70 years old who may be suffering with early memory changes or possible dementia.

About this service

At the Memory Assessment Service, you will undergo an initial nursing assessment followed by a comprehensive assessment by a geriatrician.

You will be asked to perform a memory test as part of your assessment, and you may be referred for further investigations such as a brain scan or blood tests. You may also be referred:

• for more in-depth memory testing with a neuropsychologist
• a driving assessment or
• to appropriate allied health staff, such as a social worker.

You will probably return to our clinic to follow-up on the results of the investigations, to check the progress of your memory changes over time or to confirm a diagnosis of dementia.

We will send a letter explaining a provisional diagnosis and suggested management plan will to your general practitioner after each clinic appointment.

Who we care for

The Memory Assessment Service is available for patients referred by their general practitioner or other medical practitioner.

We usually see patients under the age of 70 years old with early memory changes that require assessment.

Note that older patients, those with more advanced memory changes and co-existing complex health conditions are best seen in the General Geriatric clinic.

Our services are free if you have a Medicare Card or an Asylum Seeker Card.

How to access this service

Your general practitioner or medical practitioner needs to refer you to the Memory Assessment Service.

What to expect

We triage all referrals received during weekdays within 24 hours and you will be booked to attend the next available appointment.

You will receive a letter to confirm your appointment date and time. You may be called several days before your appointment to confirm that you will be attending.

We suggest you attend this clinic with a family member, spouse or close friend.

What to bring to your appointment

• Medicare card
• Any letters or correspondence from your general practitioner
• Medicines you need to take while you are here
• List of medicines you are currently taking (or the boxes), including medicines you have bought without a prescription, such as herbal supplements and vitamins
• Previous x-ray films, scans, ultrasounds or any other test results or reports

Where we’re located

We have directions to the University of Canberra Hospital.

Resources

You can access further information about dementia and memory changes at the Dementia Australia website.

You can also phone the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500.