Dorset CCG has outlined proposals for developing local dementia care, including new early diagnosis and intermediate care services.
The CCG, which will replace Dorset’s two PCTs, has asked for responses to its proposals from care professionals and the public.
Meeting the mental health needs of elderly people has been identified as a significant priority for the region by the CCG, which has consulted with the Alzheimer’s Society, Age UK and Help and Care.
By March 2013, the CCG plans to implement four proposals for dementia care across Dorset, Bournemouth and Poole:
• A dedicated Memory Assessment and Early Diagnosis service.
• An Intermediate Care Service providing a same-day response for patients at home.
• All NHS dementia inpatient care to be consolidated at Alderney Hospital.
• Increased specialist input to community services and care homes.
Dr Denise Cope, Associate Medical Director at Dorset Healthcare University NHS Foundation Trust, commented that these proposals “will enable more people to be cared for in the most appropriate setting, leading to a reduction in time spent in hospital and more focus on people living independently in their own homes.”
“We have sought the views of local residents and are now keen to implement the proposals,” said Dr Forbes Watson, Chair of Dorset CCG. “We hope to start making the changes to be ready for the new services to be in place next year.”
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