Free training for GPs on how to manage dementia

The Alzheimer’s Society and BMJ Learning have joined forces to produce a free training programme for doctors, after the charity found only 37 per cent of GPs have received sufficient basic training on dementia.

The charity carried out a survey of 382 GPs and found 71 per cent would like to learn more about dementia online.

Seventy five per cent of GPs said they specifically wanted to know more about the management of behavioural symptoms of dementia.

In response, the Alzheimer’s Society has joined forces with BMJ Learning, the medical education division of the BMJ Group, and is launching a free online learning programme for GPs.

Jeremy Hughes, chief executive of Alzheimer's Society, said: "Currently, only 43 per cent of people with dementia get a formal diagnosis. This could be for several reasons including stigma and lack of awareness in the general public, as well as people not visiting their doctor.

"We need to support GPs as much as possible as they have a vital role to play in diagnosing and supporting people with the condition, which is why we are very excited to launch this online learning tool.

He added: "Alzheimer's Society is also on hand to signpost GPs to additional support in the assessment of people with memory problems, as well as the management of dementia. We also offer information about services and support to those who have received or are awaiting a diagnosis, and their families."

Dr Kieran Walsh, editor of BMJ Learning, welcomed the partnership with Alzheimer's Society and said: "We are confident that it will equip clinicians with the knowledge and skills to make the best treatment decisions for their patients, every time."

Dr Alex Turnbull, a GP from Wigan, called the online learning tool "a great new resource" and said: "Having a diagnosis of dementia as early as possible is really important, allowing people to plan for the future as well as access support and potential treatments.

"But it is also vital that as GPs, we get the support and information we need to help people to the best of our ability. This online learning tool is a great new resource which should help empower GPs to achieve that."

The free programme, available at learning.bmj.com, includes sections on early diagnosis and non-drug treatments for behavioural symptoms such as hobbies, social interaction and music.

The survey was part of an evaluation of Alzheimer's Society’s ‘Worried about your memory?’ campaign, which encouraged GPs to display its campaign leaflets prominently in an effort to increase diagnosis. The leaflets encouraged anyone concerned about their memory to speak to their doctor and contact the charity.

Alzheimer’s Society research shows that 800,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer’s disease. In less than ten years a million people will be living with dementia. This will soar to 1.7m people by 2051.

Image: Jeremy Hughes, chief executive of Alzheimer's Society