People with a Dementia diagnosis attend hospital clinics and departments for conditions other than their dementia. It would be helpful for not only the patient but everyone from the desk clerk to the Consultant if there was an easy way of identifying these patients without those accompanying them having to communicate this. Having to communicate their diagnosis no matter how discreetly you try to do it can be difficult and cause upset. I have been told when supporting my parents to appointments “we only look at dermatology/ophthalmology etc notes”. No matter what the other condition is they are attending for their dementia diagnosis can be very pertinent.
In today’s world of technology it would be very simple to perhaps highlight the persons name in their online records in purple to denote a dementia diagnosis. A purple sticker could be placed on the front of paper files. If paperwork was printed off their name would be in purple.
They would then hopefully receive appropriate support during their appointments without anyone having to mention their diagnosis unless absolutely necessary. This would have untold advantages for all concerned.
This has happened in departments across this health board but I believe this is probably an NHS wide issue.
"Support for patients with a dementia diagnosis"
About: NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde
Posted by Recuperating sepsis survivor (as ),
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