Memory Diagnostic Clinic patients now seen at St. Joseph HealthPlex

The Memory Diagnostic Clinic at St. Joseph's Hospital in Breese has moved to the new hospital HealthPlex along Jamestown Road. Appointments continue to be available Tuesdays.

Occasional memory lapses are common but when they interfere with daily activities, the situation becomes more critical, said clinic program director Melanie Wylie, a nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatry.

Warning signs include memory loss that affects job skills or lifestyle, difficulty with familiar tasks, problems with language such as forgetting words, disorientation to time or place including getting lost, poor or decreased judgment, misplacing things, changes in mood, behavior and/or personality and a loss of initiative.

Initially, individuals may be able to continue their daily activities and behave in a socially appropriate manner. However, as memory loss progresses, changes become more apparent, Wylie said.

Alzheimer's is one of the more common forms of memory disorders, but stroke, Parkinson's, depression, sleep disorders, thyroid and/or vitamin deficiencies can cause similar symptoms. Many of these conditions are treatable-there are new medications to slow the progression of Alzheimer's-and some are reversible but early diagnosis is essential, she said.

This is where the Memory Diagnostic Clinic can help; the clinic opened at St. Joseph-Breese July 10.

Clinic staff-board-certified psychiatrist Scott J. Arbaugh, MD, Wylie and a clinic coordinator-provide a comprehensive evaluation to ensure the most accurate diagnosis possible. The process includes medical history, functional assessment, cognitive evaluation, neurological exam, lab work, brain scan if appropriate, a consultation with patient and family and a discussion of available options.

A physician's referral is not necessary although notes are forwarded to the doctor with permission. Most health plans cover the evaluation; the hospital Business Office (526-5329) can answer specific questions.

The clinic is in partnership with the Southern Illinois University School of Medicine Center for Alzheimer Disease and Related Disorders in Springfield and certified by the Illinois Department of Public Health.

For details or an appointment, call Social Work Services at 526-5330 or ghaukap@sjb.hshs.org.