Diagnosis Pathway in Bedfordshire
Memory Navigation Service Bedfordshire
Dementia Diagnosis
Why is a diagnosis needed?
Whilst getting a diagnosis can be daunting there are many benefits of getting an early diagnosis:
- It may explain symptoms you or your family have been worrying about
- You may be able to start treatments to slow down the progression of the disease
- You can access the appropriate advice and support
- You can plan for your future
Getting a diagnosis:
If you are concerned about your memory or think someone you know may be showing early signs of dementia, the first step is to speak with your GP. They can refer you directly for an assessment.
Memory Assessment Service (MAS)
If you or the person you care for is referred for a diagnosis in Bedfordshire then this will happen through the Memory Assessment Service. There are three assessment centres across the county in Dunstable, Biggleswade and Bedford.
The initial stage will be to assess and diagnose the nature of the person’s memory difficulties, report this to their GP and advise on further treatment or support.
The Memory Assessment Service is made up of specialist doctors, nurses, occupational therapists and psychologists who, upon receiving your referral from the GP will look at the information provided to them to establish a plan of what is best for each individual case. Some people will need to have a CT scan as part of the information needed to help the team, however, this is not the case for everyone.
Appointments with the Memory Assessment Service
At your first appointment you will usually be seen by one of the specialist doctors, the person with you will also have an opportunity to say things that they may have noticed differently than you. If this would be helpful but is not offered, make a request when you receive the appointment confirmation. It may be useful to write down these observations together with any questions you have, ready to take to the appointment to ensure you are able to discuss all your concerns. Memory, thinking and other cognitive skills will also be assessed further with a pen-and-paper test.
You may need to return for more detailed tests or be referred to additional services. If you are suitable for medication, you will then see either a doctor or a specialist nurse in a prescription clinic. Following this it is usual for you to be discharged back to the care of your GP.
It is important that those living in residential or nursing care, who may have more advanced symptoms, are also diagnosed. This means that their care can be planned to reduce unsettling hospital admissions for common difficulties. It also allows for all professionals who see the person to be aware of the condition and any individual needs.
After Diagnosis
Following a dementia diagnosis, you and your family carer will be invited to a ‘Moving Forward’ session hosted by the Memory Assessment Service (MAS). This one-time session offers valuable information about your diagnosis and gives you the opportunity to connect directly with the services that provide ongoing support.
MAS will refer you to our Memory Navigation Service, which offers continuous guidance, help, and resources tailored to your needs. Our goal is to support you every step of the way, ensuring you have access to the right information and services for your journey ahead.
These services include:
- Social support, training, and activities
- Assessments from your local council
- Connections with other charities and agencies to directly improve your quality of life
- Financial guidance
- Support with your wellbeing
GPs will refer patients back to Community Mental Health Services if they need specialist assessment or treatment as the condition progresses, and in urgent cases, the person will be seen within three working days.
Register With Us
By registering with us as a carer you will get access to a whole range of services, including advice, information, access to our groups, events and carers grants.
Need to Talk To Someone?
You can book a 20min call with one of our Memory Navigators at a time that suits you. Alternatively give us a call in office hours on 0300 111 9090
