Memory Clinic

This multidisciplinary specialist outpatient clinic located in the Euroa Centre at Prince of Wales Hospital assesses patients referred for memory problems. The clinic is headed by Dr Henry Brodaty (Professor of Ageing and Mental Health) and includes Dr Perminder Sachdev (Professor of Neuropsychiatry), Lisa Lorentz and Nicole Kochan (Clinical Neuropsychologists), Daniella Kanareck (Social Worker) and Jacki Wesson or Natalie Nuransky (Occupational Therapists).

Requirements for referrals are memory problems interfering with daily function for persons who are independent in self-care. Patients with more severe memory problems should be referred to general psychogeriatric outpatients or to their local Aged Care Assessment Team.
Patients must be referred by their GP and be resident in South Eastern Sydney Area Health Service unless they are referred for a second opinion by a relevant specialist.

Assessments are carried out on two days a week apart. On the first day, generally a Thursday afternoon, the patient accompanied by an informant (usually a spouse or close relative) has an assessment by a doctor and an Occupational Therapist. On the second day, usually a Wednesday morning, the patient has a neuropsychological assessment, blood tests (if not done previously), electrocardiogram and chest X-ray. A person who knows the patient well is also seen by a social worker.

One week later, at approximately 1pm on a Thursday, the patient and family are seen to provide the results of investigations, conclusions about diagnosis and recommendations for further treatment and management. An interim written copy and other information are provided to the patient and family at that time and a detailed summary of the assessment and recommendations are sent to the referring doctor.

Referrals can be made by telephoning the Administrative Officer for Aged Care Psychiatry, on 9382 3753. All referrals must complete a detailed questionnaire and forward this by mail before an appointment can be given. A list of all medications and copies of previous investigations and any brain scans that have already been done should be brought to the first appointment. If an interpreter is required please notify the Administrative Officer when the appointment is sought. It is important to bring reading glasses and hearing aids if these are used.