Why no referal?

[RobK]

My father who lives alone has been showing signs of Alzheimers for some time. He has suffered 'brief periods of absence' as he puts it, and last year had a spell in hospital following which his memory has been severely deminished. His GP attributes this simply to the ageing process. We have requested an assessment of his condition several times but whilst the GP does not refuse, he does not make the referal. There must surely be advantages to knowing for sure that his condition is Alzheimers, we suspect that that is what is causing his problems, but why will the GP not refer him to a specialist? Is there a cost to the practice, or some other 'politial' reason for not agreeing to our request.

Any advice appreciated.

 

[Angela]

Hi Rob
It is likely that the only reason the GP is not referring your Father is because of his/her ignorance. You might try another doctor within the practice? You can almost insist that the GP does make the referrel, by keeping on that you think it would benefit your Father, he could have medication if appropraite and all the other services that are available from the advice of the staff, eg at the memory clinic where he may be referred.
Otherwise, Im afraid I have no other advice, in my are the only way to see the specialists is through ones GP.
Look up your local AS branch they should be able to help you further.

 

[Uncletrunx]

It is, I think, important to note that dementia is NOT a "normal part of the ageing process", and that too many people are told this and thus live without a diagnosis for far too long.

It can be a good idea to ask for a second opinion if you feel that your GP is not being helpful.

Otherwise, I've found in a variety of circumstances that asking for a copy of the official complaints procedure often seems to "grease the wheels"!

 

[Spike]

Why no referral

Dont ever give up on getting a referral - it took me 12 months but its worth it!