Developing an integrated Memory Assessment and Support Service for people with dementia

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Hean et al (2010) described the development of an integrated Memory Assessment and Support Service (MASS) guided by best practice principles and by the National Dementia Strategy

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Summary

The MASS developed a streamlined care pathway, with one point of entry and a common care programme approach to assessment whereby timely referral, treatment and support are delivered to any patient irrespective of age. They outlined previous service provision and drew comparisons from both quantitative and qualitative evaluation data to consider the effectiveness of the new service. Conclusions and recommendations were offered to assist others with similar practice development requirements. An evaluation of the service identified the components of the new service patient pathway – and those previously offered. The MASS service has shown distinct benefits over the previous pathway.