Phoenix Hospital Group launches state-of-the-art memory clinic

Phoenix Hospital Group has announced the launch of a state-of-the-art memory clinic, which will help to support the early diagnosis of dementia and other memory-related conditions.

Situated in the Harley Street Medical Area, Phoenix specialises in a variety of medical fields, offering access to expert consulting and the latest diagnostics and imaging facilities. The new memory clinic at 25 Harley Street will allow patients experiencing memory loss to undergo comprehensive assessments, both cognitive and physical, with the ability to be seen and examined in a single visit.

Memory loss can be a natural part of getting older, and while it can sometimes be caused by something treatable, it can also be a sign of something more serious, such as dementia, caused by abnormal changes within the brain. Dementia covers a range of medical conditions, such as Alzheimer’s disease, and triggers a decline in cognitive abilities. Symptoms such as memory loss tend to be progressive, meaning they worsen over time, while differing from person to person.

Quick, reliable diagnosis
While there is currently no cure for dementia, if diagnosed early there are ways to slow it down. The key to receiving appropriate support and guidance is quick diagnosis, giving people with dementia and those close to them the best chance to prepare and plan for the future. 

Dr Soumit Singhai, consultant geriatrician and physician specialising in cognitive and neuropsychiatric problems, and a specialist consultant at the new memory clinic, said: “Dementia is a life-changing condition, and feedback from patients and relatives have shown how difficult it often is to know where to seek help. There are often delays in obtaining a diagnosis of memory problems, and the uncertainty adds to the anxiety and stress for patients and their families during what is usually an already difficult time. This is why we are delighted to be launching our new private memory clinic, specifically to help patients suffering from dementia or worried about their memory to receive a quick, reliable diagnosis, while providing a service that is holistic and supportive for all patients.”

Full cognitive profile
Dementia affects one in 14 people over the age of 65, and one in six people over the age of 80. There is no single test for dementia. Instead, diagnosis is based on a combination of different assessments and tests. The assessment process at the new memory clinic involves an in-depth consultation with a specialist consultant, followed by a comprehensive cognitive assessment, which is offered on the same day. This is designed to assess in detail the different domains of cognition, including attention, memory and language—the patient’s individual test scores across these areas are then added up to provide a full cognitive profile.

This is followed by a blood test and MRI brain scan, after which a feedback assessment is arranged in which clinical diagnosis and management strategies are explained and discussed with patients and their relatives. All necessary assessments are completed within a very short timeframe, usually on the same day or within a week, to meet the needs and expectations of patients and their families.

Dr Soumit Singhai commented: “One of our key priorities is to provide support and advice on strategies for a brain-healthy lifestyle, with more emerging evidence now that certain lifestyle changes can help prevent the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and slow down—or even reverse—the process of deterioration. Another key priority is to provide advice and support with issues related to forward-planning once a diagnosis of dementia is made, so that quality of life can be maintained and improved.”