Reducing young-onset dementia (YoD) assessment waiting times in North Staffordshire Neuropsychology (NSN).

This article focuses on the redesign and streamlining of a Young-Onset Dementia (YoD) assessment pathway within an outpatient neuropsychology service at North Staffordshire Combined Healthcare NHS Trust. The revised pathway narrows referral criteria to individuals aged 50–59, requires prior GP investigations including MRI scans and blood tests, and implements a shortened, evidence-based cognitive test battery to improve efficiency and reduce waiting times. Initial outcomes indicate that the streamlined process maintains diagnostic accuracy while decreasing assessment duration and wait times, supported by case examples illustrating varied clinical presentations. Future plans include evaluating patient and staff experiences, auditing diagnostic rates, and enhancing collaboration with partner organizations to support individuals diagnosed with YoD.