ADDRESSING DEMENTIA UNDERDIAGNOSIS: SCREENING, DIAGNOSIS AND MANAGEMENT OF COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT/DEMENTIA PATIENTS AT THE MACKAY BASE HOSPITAL

Abstract

Dementia affects our behaviour, cognition and ability to perform everyday tasks. About 487,500 Australians have a dementia diagnosis; however, it is recognised that many cases go undiagnosed. A previous audit within Mackay Base Hospital (MBH) found that a high proportion of patients >65 years old displayed cognitive impairment but were not screened appropriately and were missed dementia diagnoses. This resulted in an increased length of stay (LOS) and readmission rates. Recommendations were aimed at increased screening/diagnosis and alternative management pathways for dementia patients.