Brain Health in Primary Care
Issue
Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD) affect nearly 7 million Americans aged 65 and older—a number expected to double by 2060. ADRD is a leading cause of death in this age group and places a heavy financial burden on the healthcare system, with Medicare and Medicaid costs far higher for those with the disease. Communities of color, especially Hispanic and Black adults, are expected to be disproportionately impacted by the growing number of cases. Despite this, proactive screening and early intervention for brain health remain very limited, leaving many individuals undiagnosed until symptoms become severe.
Project Objective
Together with a team of national experts, AMGA and 4 healthcare organizations will work to reduce delays in diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or Alzheimer's and related dementias (ADRD) through improved routine use of brain health discussions, assessments, and follow up within primary care.
Results
Coming 2026-2027
Interventions
Interventions will address system level gaps including:
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Overall lack of standardization (screening protocols, EHR documentation, diagnosis delays due to stigma)
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Lack of primary care time during visits, clinician knowledge, and/or care plans/referrals to manage cognitive issues (e.g., MTM, medication, nutrition)
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Access to brain health specialists or intermediary care (distance, delayed referrals, long wait times)
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Multi-disciplinary coordination between primary care, psychiatry, neurology, social work, nursing, pharmacy, and/or brain health navigators
Interventions are under development in partnership with 4 AMGA members, stay tuned!