Awareness of local dementia services among general practitioners with academic affiliation

Background and aims: Cooperation with specialized services is one important resource for general practitioners (GPs) in managing dementia patients and caregivers. Methods: In a questionnaire study among GPs involved in university teaching (n=137) we asked if GPs knew of four types of local dementia services. A linear regression analysis was conducted to find associations with GPs' awareness. Results: Day care services could be named by over two-thirds of GPs, patient support groups by nearly half, carer support groups and memory clinics by only 40%. Greater awareness of services was associated with better theoretical knowledge of dementia and GP practices in urban areas. Conclusions: In the light of the specificity of our GP sample, our results display remarkably poor awareness of institutions caring for demented patients and their relatives. A more active approach in acquainting GPs with dementia services, especially in rural areas, may enhance awareness and cooperation. (Aging Clin Exp Res 2011; 23: 241-243) (c) 2011, Editrice Kurtis