Many doctors are not using practice guidelines designed to improve the care of Alzheimer patients, according to researchers from seven U.S. medical organizations.

Meeting in Chicago, representatives from the American Academy of Neurology, Alzheimer's Association, American Medical Association, American Association of Geriatric Psychiatry, American Geriatric Society, American Medical Directors Association and the World Federation of Neurology found that more than two dozen practice guidelines exist to provide guidance to healthcare practitioners, yet many may not be taking advantage of them.

"There is a lot known about caring for people with Alzheimer's disease and a lot of resources are available," said Stephen McConnell of the Alzheimer's Association. "However, we are concerned that many clinicians may not be aware of the guidelines and are not utilizing them in their practices."

The group determined that there is widespread agreement about the guidelines, and advised that it would be helpful if clinicians who care for Alzheimer's disease patients obtain and follow the guidelines provided by their specialty society. This may improve the quality of care provided to these patients. They also agreed on the importance of incorporating practice guidelines into medical education, accreditation, certification and re-certification programs.

"We need to provide tools to help more physicians diagnose and treat people dealing with this devastating disease," said Catherine Rydell, executive director and CEO of the American Academy of Neurology. "Clinicians may make a difference in the quality of life of patients with Alzheimer's disease if they follow guideline recommendations."

Other sources: American Academy of Neurology