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Dementia assessment and management protocol for doctors in Nepal
1Mental Health services for Older People, Hertfordshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, UK.
JNMA; Journal of the Nepal Medical Association
|April 18, 2013
Summary
Dementia is rising globally, with over 135,000 people affected in Nepal. This study proposes a new mhGAP-based protocol for dementia assessment and care, including caregiver support, to address the lack of formal provisions.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Neurology
- Public Health
Background:
- The World Health Organization (WHO) reported a significant increase in dementia cases globally, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
- Nepal faces a substantial burden of dementia, estimated at over 135,000 individuals, yet lacks formal diagnostic, treatment, and caregiver support systems.
- The WHO's Mental Health Gap Action Programme (mhGAP) Intervention Guide offers a framework for managing neurological conditions, including dementia, in non-specialist settings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing dementia care provisions in Nepal.
- To propose a novel dementia assessment and management protocol based on the mhGAP Intervention Guide for Nepalese healthcare professionals.
- To provide post-diagnostic advice and support strategies for dementia caregivers in Nepal.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of current dementia care practices in Nepal.
- Adaptation of the mhGAP Intervention Guide for dementia assessment and management in Nepalese hospital/clinic settings.
- Development of caregiver support guidelines integrated into the proposed protocol.
Main Results:
- Identified a critical gap in formal dementia diagnosis, treatment, and caregiver support in Nepal.
- Developed a comprehensive mhGAP-based protocol tailored for Nepalese doctors.
- Included essential post-diagnostic advice for caregivers within the protocol.
Conclusions:
- The proposed mhGAP-based protocol offers a scalable solution to improve dementia care in Nepal.
- Implementation of this protocol can enhance early diagnosis, management, and caregiver support, addressing a significant public health need.
- Further stakeholder engagement is planned to refine and recommend the protocol for widespread clinical adoption.
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