Sharing a diagnosis of dementia - Learning from the patient perspective

Sharing a diagnosis of dementia is a key focus of debate and research in the field of dementia care. The pivotal role of the GP in the early identification and subsequent management of dementia has long been recognized and whilst diagnostic practice is improving, the knowledge gained from research exploring the patient perspective is insufficiently absorbed. This paper presents the evidence from the two perspectives of the diagnostic relationship: the views of GPs around giving a diagnosis and the views of patients on receiving one. The authors draw upon their own projects - as well as wider research - in suggesting ways that diagnostic practice can be improved by taking account of the patient perspective. The learning can be distilled around the dimensions of the process, approach and nature of disclosure with evidence particularly challenging the 'myths' held by many GPs around the value of early diagnosis. Whilst much work still needs to be done to incorporate the patient perspective in dementia care, there is clear evidence that patient oriented research has much to offer the development of disclosure practice in primary care to the benefit of patients, their families and GPs.