Memory Diagnostic Services

MISSION

The mission of the Memory Diagnostic Clinic is to provide a center for the early diagnosis and treatment of dementia—some of which may be reversible if detected in time.

STRUCTURE

• The clinic is held one-half day each month on a Friday and is conducted at the Southwest Health Center hospital in Platteville.
• The first visit to the clinic is a two-hour appointment, followed by a one-hour appointment one month later.
• Three to six month follow-up appointments are scheduled as appropriate.
• TJ Norton, MD is a psychiatrist  and Scott Whitney, Ph.D. is a psychologist.
• The clinic emphasizes early diagnosis and treatment, but will communicate with the individual's primary care physician upon the individual's request.
• The Southwest Health Center Memory Diagnostic Clinic follows internationally recognized protocols for diagnosing Alzheimer's disease, related dementias, and other causes of memory impairment.

BEFORE THE APPOINTMENT

• A screening evaluation determines whether the clinic will be able to meet individual needs for assessment and care management.
• The patient or caregiver will receive a packet that includes release of medical information, medical history form, and caregiver assessment forms, which must be completed and brought to the first appointment.

AT THE APPOINTMENT

• A history will be obtained from the patient/caregiver(s)/family.
• The patient will receive a neuropsychological examination, depression screenings, functional and sensory exams and a targeted physical examination.
• Laboratory and radiological testing will be ordered as appropriate.
• Appropriate services such as Occupational, Physical, Speech Therapy and Nutritional Consults will be scheduled as indicated.

AT THE FOLLOW-UP APPOINTMENT

• The patient, family and caregiver will be given the diagnosis and treatment recommendations, along with further information regarding dementia, future planning, and community resources.
• Patients diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease will be linked with the Alzheimer's Association for further education, support and linkages.
• Appropriate patient information will be entered into the Wisconsin Alzheimer Institute's research database. (Patients have the option of refusing to participate in research).

WHY GO THROUGH THE MEMORY DIAGNOSTIC CLINIC?

• The interdisciplinary team members are experts in diagnosing the causes of memory loss, as well as Alzheimer's disease and other dementias.
• The Memory Diagnostic Clinic will provide you with information about the latest research and treatments available for persons suffering from memory impairment.
• The interdisciplinary team provides education on coping with memory loss for both the patient and the family.
• The team links the family and patient with the Alzheimer's Association and other community resources, as appropriate.
• The team provides on-going monitoring and support, and assists the patient and family in planning for the future.

WHAT IS DEMENTIA & MEMORY LOSS?

Dementia is a gradual loss of mental ability, such as memory loss, changes in personality and thinking abilities, forgetfulness, confusion or impaired judgment and is not a normal part of aging. Dementia and memory loss can result from a number of factors, including Alzheimer's disease and related degenerative neurological disorders, stroke, medication effects and depression. Stress, lack of sleep, poor nutrition or illness can all affect memory.

TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT

For more information or to schedule an appointment call the Southwest Health Center Memory Diagnostic Clinic at (608) 744-3156 or email gravesj@southwesthealth.org.