• Diagnostic and Treatment Services
• Appointments and Location
• A Typical First Visit
• En Español
• PENN Centro Para La Memoria
• La primera visita a la clinica del Centro

   

What happens at a first visit to the Penn Memory Center?

The first visit to the Penn Memory Center (PMC) is comprehensive. The visit typically lasts 2 to 3 hours. It involves both the patient and a family member or friend who is known as the “study partner.” The value of the study partner is to contribute to a complete history of the patient’s problem. The visit includes:

1. Reviewing the new patient packet: A PMC staff member reviews the new patient packet and other information supplied by the patient and study partner.

2. Cognitive testing: This testing assesses memory, language, and concentration. Testing takes from 45 to 60 minutes.

3. Study partner discussion: While the patient receives cognitive testing, the study partner meets with a PMC clinician. The clinician is interested in learning about when memory and other problems started with the patient and if they have changed. This takes from 45 to 60 minutes.

4. Review of our program: A PMC staff member reviews with the patient and study partner a form that describes our National Institute of Health funded program.

5. Patient exam: The patient meets with the clinician. During this time the patient provides the history of the problem and undergoes a detailed neurological exam.

6. Preliminary results: The patient, the study partner, and the clinician meet as a group to discuss the preliminary results of the visit and any tests necessary to complete the evaluation. Typical tests are blood work and a MRI of the brain.