NHS Grampian’s chairwoman has questioned the accuracy of statistics suggesting that dementia patients in the north-east have to wait longer for support after being diagnosed than anywhere else in Scotland.
Figures presented at yesterday’s health board meeting showed that during 2016-17, 335 people with the condition were referred for additional help within that year.
That equated to only 18.6% of those estimated to be newly diagnosed with the condition, compared to the Scottish average of 46.7%.
Professor Lynda Lynch, chairwoman of the health board, admitted the statistic may appear “quite alarming”.
However, she stressed the estimated number of diagnoses was based on figures compiled by two health boards, neither of which was NHS Grampian.
She added: “It could that we are not getting it right with diagnosis or perhaps there is an issue with the estimates.”
Board member Pam Gowans, who is chief officer of Health and Social Care Moray, explained a new model for providing support for dementia patients had been implemented at the Ardach Health Centre in Buckie.
She added: “We have tested it and it is proving successful. It is providing support to individuals and their families and we are looking to roll it out.”
