New Patients

Cura personalis is the culture of Georgetown University; it is the care of the whole person. Our approach to care involves more than a diagnosis. We involve family members, employ community resources and collaborate with a network of specialists.

Before Your First Visit

If you are not already a patient at the MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, we require health insurance information and medical records prior to scheduling your initial appointment.

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:

  • Download the Georgetown University Hospital Medical Records Release Form
  • Submit the completed form by fax or mail
    • Fax Number: 855-437-4911 (attention to: Carolyn Ward)
    • Mailing Address: 4000 Reservoir Rd., Building D, Suite 177, Washington, DC USA 20057

In order to provide patients and their families with quality care, we need to receive the patient’s medical records prior to the first visit. The record should include:

  • The most recent physician note
  • Medication list
  • Diagnostic reports (lab results, CT, MRI, PET scans, etc.)

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

In addition to medical records, please complete the Patient Information Form.

What to Expect

The First Appointment

The appointment usually takes about 1 hour. This visit includes a thorough review of medical history, and interviews with both the patient and family member or friend.  Furthermore, we assess your memory through cognitive and neurologic examinations.

The clinician may order appropriate diagnostic testing, including blood tests and a neuroimaging study (brain CT or MRI). Another diagnostic tool includes neuropsychological testing. These results are shared with the patient, and we work together to develop a plan of care.

Care Coordination

A person experiencing a memory problem may be unable to provide accurate or complete information. Having a family member or friend involved in the visit provides context of the current situation. Moreover, it is important to include loved ones in the conversation when developing a plan of care. The presence of a family member or friend may ensure that clinician orders will be followed.

Often, we recommend lifestyle changes such as diet, exercise and social activities. Our team may connect you with community resources. The plan of care relies on friends, family and care providers in order to be successful.

Follow-up

Follow-up appointments may occur every 3-4 months, every 6 months, or annually (as needed). Alternatively, a research appointment may be set up in order to enroll in a clinical trial, with follow-up visits per the study schedule (typically, monthly for 12-18 months).