The Memory Disorders Program utilizes a team approach to provide the best clinical services possible. Our clinical team consists of physicians, nurse practitioners, the program coordinator and research assistants. This team approach provides the patient with comprehensive clinical care.

A first appointment usually takes about an hour and 15 minutes. Typically, the visit will include brief cognitive testing to assess a person's memory, physical and neurological exams, and a patient history. If recent lab work is not available, or if scans of the brain have not been done in the past, the clinician may order these tests to gain additional information on the patient. Depending on the situation, the clinician may also decide to order additional cognitive testing.

In addition to interviewing the patient, it is important that a family member or friend is also present for an interview. A person with a memory problem may be unable to provide accurate or complete information for clinicians to conduct a comprehensive assessment. Having a family member or friend involved in the visit provides our doctors and nurse practitioners with additional information and a context in which to understand what is currently going on in a patient's life.

Once the lab results have been returned to the clinician, they will provide a diagnosis and discuss follow up options with the patient and their family. Follow-up appointments often occur every 3-4 months. However, it is common for follow-ups to occur every 6 months or annually, depending upon the needs of the patient.

To make an appointment for an evaluation please contact our program coordinator, Carolyn Ward at 202-784-6671.

In order to provide patients and their families with the best possible care we need to receive the patient's medical records prior to their first visit. The record should include notes from the patients most recent physical or physician visit including the patient's general medical condition, list of medications, recent laboratory results, and reports of CT scans, MRI scans or PET scans of the brain. This information can be faxed or mailed via US Postal Service to our administrative office.

A confirmation letter is sent in advance which includes information on the date, time, and location of the appointment. We see clinic patients in Georgetown University Hospital in the Pasquerilla Health Center on the 7th floor. Clinical services are available Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.

All requests for the release of medical records must be submitted in writing and must be dated and signed by the patient or the patient's legally authorized representative.

To obtain your medical records:

1. Download the Georgetown University Hospital Medical Records Release Form
2. Submit the completed form by fax or mail

For more information about your medical records, please refer to the Georgetown University Hospital Patient Handbook.