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In September 2016, Healthwatch Hartlepool produced a report on their investigation into patient experience of dementia diagnosis. Healthwatch Hartlepool decided to look at the issue of dementia diagnosis as part of its ongoing interest in the provision of dementia care and treatment services. Despite indications that diagnosis rates in the Hartlepool and Stockton Clinical Commissioning Group area (HAST CCG) were improving, concerns were identified that some patients were reluctant to acknowledge that they were experiencing memory problems due to stigma (perceived or otherwise) associated with the condition. In November 2015 questionnaires were sent to all G.P surgeries in Hartlepool. The questionnaire asked about the process the individual practices took with patients presenting with possible issues through to diagnosis and ongoing treatment and support, 8 practices returned the questionnaire. Discussions also took place with individuals and groups of patients and carers who have recent experience of dementia diagnosis, in total 30 patients and carers were spoken to. Overall the report stated there was evidence that diagnosis and associated procedures have improved across the G.P practices that returned questionnaires. Awareness levels amongst all staff appear to have improved and staff training on dementia awareness now happens routinely in most Practices. Some of the findings and recommendations are shown below: • Stigma attached to the condition could impair willingness to seek help and support at an early stage. • It was suggested that improvements could be made to ongoing support after diagnosis. • Every effort should be made to ensure that all parties are kept fully informed, and as far as is practicably possible have understood all aspects of diagnosis and ongoing implications. At the time of the report being published there was no response to the findings and recommendations.

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