Oxford Health’s Memory Clinics offer full assessment and diagnosis, if appropriate, for patients presenting with difficulties with their memory or other cognitive problems which might be caused by a dementia. The clinic is staffed by Consultants, Nurses/Occupational Therapists and Assistant Psychologists.

Philippa Cuttell, Team Manager at Abingdon Mental Health Centre, explains: “Our Memory Clinic is run by a dedicated team of clinicians. It can be very frightening for people to think that they or their loved one’s are developing dementia.

We aim to offer a reassuring space where through the results of brain imaging, cognitive testing and a comprehensive assessment, a thorough investigation of their difficulties can take place and if required a diagnosis can be given in a sensitive and supportive way. We always ask that a close friend or family member who knows the patient well, comes with them, as their account of the persons difficulties is essential to our assessment.

Carol Moody, Memory Clinic Administrator

The clinic is organised by Carol our Memory Clinic administrator who is well known to patients and their families as she deals compassionately with all their concerns about appointments on the telephone and they often give her amazing feedback. We are very thankful that we are being appreciated by our patients and their families, it’s rewarding to know the hard work is paying off.”

All patients and service users who receive care and support from Oxford Health are encouraged to provide reviews on the independent I Want Great Care website. The Trust welcomes reviews as they help our teams learn where the quality and standards of care can be improved. It also lets us know where our teams are providing good and compassionate care and allows us to publicly recognise their work.

A patient’s family member said: “There was a genuine interest in my stepfather’s

A few team members (L-R) Dr Rob Mitchell, Clare Hamblin (CPN), Beth Woodward (CPN) and Sameera Shabir (Assistant Psychologist)

life and circumstances, which shows he was treated as a person and not a case. There were also helpful links and information to explore future care options which we appreciated.”

Another patient said: “Time, care and consideration were evident throughout my appointment. Clear explanations and feedback was given with the next steps in my treatment thoroughly explained. Very helpful and supportive, thank you.”

To learn more about Oxford Health’s Memory Service, or to find your nearest clinic click here.