We are a specialist diagnostic service for people who are concerned about progressive or unexplained changes to their memory, thinking, communication, language or behaviour.

These changes may be due to mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or dementia.

We provide a comprehensive assessment to help understand what is causing these changes. We then give clear information about diagnosis, treatment options and support services.

Our team includes geriatricians, neurologists, nurses, speech pathologists and neuropsychologists with expertise in brain health and dementia. 

This is a diagnostic service only. We do not provide ongoing care after diagnosis, but we will refer you to appropriate services if needed.

After assessment, we may:

• Provide a diagnosis (such as MCI or dementia)
• Give information about treatment options
• Provide education about your condition
• Connect you and your family with support services
• Help you plan for the future
• Offer information about research opportunities where appropriate

CDAMS is part of the suite of services provided by the Health Independence Program (HIP).

Accessing this clinic

You will need a referral from your GP or specialist to access this service.

After your doctor refers you

Once we receive your referral, we will contact you (or your nominated contact person) to arrange a phone discussion with one of our clinicians.

During this call, we will:

• Talk about your memory or thinking concerns
• Understand your needs and expectations
• Collect background information

If appropriate, we will book your clinic appointment during this call.

Most people are seen within 2 to 4 months after we receive a referral.

Appointments

We will contact you to make an appointment by:

• Phone
• Email
• SMS (text message)
• Letter

If you need to change or cancel your appointment, call 03 9496 2596.

What to expect during your clinic appointment

Your first appointment

Your first appointment takes up to 90 minutes.

It includes:

• a detailed discussion about your health, background and daily function
• questions about changes to your memory, thinking or behaviour
• a cognitive assessment (memory, thinking and language)
• a basic physical examination.

At the end of the appointment, we will explain our initial assessment and any next steps.

We strongly encourage you to bring a support person, as their input helps us understand changes over time.

You will receive a care plan outlining what happens next.

Tests and investigations

Some people may need additional tests, such as scans or blood tests, to help confirm a diagnosis.

Follow-up appointments

After any tests are completed, we will arrange a follow-up appointment.

At this appointment:

• we will discuss your results
• provide a diagnosis (if possible)
• recommend next steps and support services.

You will also receive written information about your diagnosis and care plan.

What to bring

Medicare and other details

• Medicare card
• Any concession cards (if applicable)

Medical information and medicines

• Any scans, test results or reports (including CDs or digital copies)
• Your GP’s contact details
• A list of your current medicines (or bring the boxes)
• Any medicines you need to take while you are at the clinic
• Adverse drug alert card (if you have one)

Personal items

• Glasses, hearing aids or walking aids (if you use them)
• Supportive, non-slip shoes
• Your smartphone if needed

Preparing for your visit

To attend this clinic, you need to be medically stable and able to participate in a 90-minute assessment.

Times and locations

Clinic times

Mondays from 1.30pm to 4.30pm

Wednesdays from 1.30pm to 4.30pm

Clinic location

Health and Rehabilitation Centre
Heidelberg Repatriation Hospital
Edwin Street, Gate 5
Ivanhoe VIC

View location map

Find out about transport and parking at Heidelberg Repatriation Hospital.

Related services

• Aged care

  We provide specialised assessment and medical care for older people at hospital, at their home or their residential facility.

• Older people's assessment

  We support people to make decisions about the kind of care that they need when they are having difficulty having managing at home without assistance.

• Medical & cognitive research

  We conduct clinical trials to find suitable medications which can assist people with dementia.

• Helping you stay active & well at home

  We work with you to improve your health and help you manage everyday tasks to improve your quality of life.

Referral information for health professionals

For health professionals

Find out more about referring your patient to our memory clinic.   

Contact CDAMS

Clinic enquiries and existing appointments

Phone: 03 9496 2596

Email: memory@austin.org.au

Referrals and new appointments

Phone: 03 9496 2211

Email: hipcentralintake@austin.org.au

Contact hours

Monday to Friday, 8am to 4.30pm (excluding public holidays)

Location

Health and Rehabilitation Centre
Heidelberg Repatriation Hospital
Edwin Street, Gate 5
Ivanhoe VIC

View location map

Find out about transport and parking at Heidelberg Repatriation Hospital.

Other helpful services