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"Lack of timely communication and clarity"

About: Dementia and Older Persons Mental Health / West Memory assessment service Team

(as a staff member posting for a carer/relative),

I would like to raise concerns about the experience following a memory assessment referral:

The main issue is the length of time it took to get the memory assessment appointment. The concern was first raised with the surgery but the process felt very slow.

The appointment itself involved answering many questions, which we had prepared for in advance. The nurse was very approachable, patient, and helpful in answering questions.

However, no clear explanation or diagnosis was provided during the assessment. We were told that notes would be sent to the consultant, and a home visit is scheduled, but there has been no correspondence since the assessment.

There was only a vague mention of what the condition might be, leaving us feeling abandoned and unsupported, especially as our loved one’s condition is deteriorating.

My husband had a CT scan, which were only shared at the memory clinic. We have had no correspondence with the GP or any other service.  We will now see the GP, but this delay has caused further uncertainty and stress.

Overall, the lack of timely communication and clarity has made this process very difficult. We feel completely on our own in managing this situation. As we are getting older we just want answers and feel we have not been supported, and worry what support we will get following a diagnosis if this is the case.

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Responses

Response from Sarah Penter, Patient experience officer, Patient experience, Cornwall Foundation Trust 3 days ago
Sarah Penter
Patient experience officer, Patient experience,
Cornwall Foundation Trust

Patient Experience Officer

Submitted on 02/12/2025 at 13:47
Published on Care Opinion at 13:47


picture of Sarah Penter

Thank you for taking the time to leave feedback for one of our services during this worrying time. I am sorry you have felt the process has taken too long and has left you feeling frustrated when, understandably, you want the best care for your loved one.

I have been in contact with the Team Leads and I am hoping they will provide us with a response. In the mean time though feel free to contact me via my email sarah.penter@nhs.net (Patient Experience) if you wish to discuss further.

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