Treatment of patients with Alzheimer's disease: a national survey following release of the NICE guidance

Abstract

Aims and MethodThe National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) has issued guidance regarding the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. A postal survey of old age psychiatrists, geriatricians and neurologists was conducted to establish working practice pre-NICE and investigate expectations about the effect of this guidance.ResultsThe overall response rate was 26.3%. Old age psychiatrists prescribe the majority of drugs for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. There was variation in the annual expenditure on such treatment. The main reason for non-prescription was a lack of funding. Over 80% of doctors thought that patients with mild disease should now be targeted for treatment.Clinical ImplicationsIn order to implement the guidance it will be necessary to address the issue of funding and have clear role allocation between local services.