Awareness of local dementia services among general practitioners with academic affiliation.
OBJECTIVE
Cooperation with specialized services is one important resource for general practitioners (GPs) in managing dementia patients and caregivers.


METHODS
In a questionnaire study among GPs involved in university teaching (n=137) we asked if GPs knew of four types of local dementia services. A linear regression analysis was conducted to find associations with GPs' awareness.


RESULTS
Day care services could be named by over two-thirds of GPs, patient support groups by nearly half, carer support groups and memory clinics by only 40%. Greater awareness of services was associated with better theoretical knowledge of dementia and GP practices in urban areas.


CONCLUSIONS
In the light of the specificity of our GP sample, our results display remarkably poor awareness of institutions caring for demented patients and their relatives. A more active approach in acquainting GPs with dementia services, especially in rural areas, may enhance awareness and cooperation.
Pentzek
Michael
M
Department of General Practice, Medical Faculty, University of Düsseldorf, Moorenstr. 5, Building 14.97, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany. pentzek@med.uni-duesseldorf.de
Fuchs
Angela
A
Abholz
Heinz-Harald
HH
Wollny
Anja
A
D000047:Academies and Institutes; D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D001364:Awareness; D017028:Caregivers; D003156:Community Mental Health Services; D003299:Cooperative Behavior; D003631:Day Care, Medical; D003704:Dementia / Q000628:therapy*; D058005:General Practitioners; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires