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Early diagnosis of dementia by GPs: an exploratory study of attitudes

Milne, Alisoun, Woolford, H.H., Mason, J., Hatzidimitriadou, Eleni (2000) Early diagnosis of dementia by GPs: an exploratory study of attitudes. Aging and Mental Health, 4 (4). pp. 292-300. ISSN 1360-7863. (doi:10.1080/713649958) (The full text of this publication is not currently available from this repository. You may be able to access a copy if URLs are provided) (KAR id:16419)

The full text of this publication is not currently available from this repository. You may be able to access a copy if URLs are provided.
Official URL:
https://doi.org/10.1080/713649958

Abstract

The capacity of early diagnosis of dementia to facilitate effective treatment and care is well established. The pivotal role of the GP has also been identified by research, although accuracy in detecting and diagnosing dementia at an early stage varies considerably. Despite the likely influence of attitude on practice, little is known about GP attitudes towards early diagnosis. This study collected attitudinal data, and supplementary commentary, from nearly 60% of GPs in one health authority. The research suggests consistency between belief in the value of early diagnosis and reported practice. Specifically, results reveal that three variables significantly predict practice-a belief there are benefits to patients from early diagnosis, a belief that negative outcomes may result from a failure to diagnose early and the accessibility of local support services. Overall, the study found that 40% of GPs hold positive views and 20% hold negative views towards early diagnosis. These views are underpinned by specific 'drivers' and 'barriers'. The study concludes that if GPs are to extend their commitment to early diagnosis, development work needs to focus on investing in the training and resources, which facilitate practice, and challenging attitudinal barriers, which undermine it.

Item Type: Article
DOI/Identification number: 10.1080/713649958
Subjects: R Medicine
B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology
Divisions: Divisions > Division for the Study of Law, Society and Social Justice > School of Social Policy, Sociology and Social Research > Tizard
Depositing User: A. Xie
Date Deposited: 24 Aug 2009 16:40 UTC
Last Modified: 09 Mar 2023 11:31 UTC
Resource URI: https://kar.kent.ac.uk/id/eprint/16419 (The current URI for this page, for reference purposes)

University of Kent Author Information

Milne, Alisoun.

Creator's ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0977-8156
CReDIT Contributor Roles:

Hatzidimitriadou, Eleni.

Creator's ORCID:
CReDIT Contributor Roles:
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