To enhance early detection and diagnosis of Early-Onset Alzheimer's Disease (EOAD) in primary care settings, healthcare systems and policies can implement several key strategies. Firstly, increasing awareness among primary care physicians (PCPs) about the unique symptoms and challenges associated with EOAD is crucial. This can be achieved through specialized training programs, workshops, and educational materials focusing on the atypical presentation of EOAD compared to Late-Onset Alzheimer's Disease (LOAD). Additionally, incorporating routine cognitive screening tools specifically designed to detect cognitive deficits common in EOAD, such as language difficulties and impaired motor skills, can aid in early identification.
Furthermore, streamlining the referral process for suspected EOAD cases to specialists, such as neurologists or dementia experts, can expedite the diagnostic journey. Healthcare policies can incentivize collaboration between PCPs and specialists, ensuring a multidisciplinary approach to diagnosis. Telemedicine platforms can also be leveraged to facilitate consultations with experts in remote areas, reducing barriers to accessing specialized care for EOAD patients. Additionally, integrating EOAD-focused diagnostic protocols and guidelines into healthcare systems can standardize practices and improve consistency in diagnosis across different primary care settings.