Ministers are facing increasing calls to establish an 18-week maximum waiting time for dementia diagnosis across England, following a campaign by the Alzheimer’s Society that garnered support from 72% of the public. The charity argues that a clearly defined target is necessary to tackle prolonged delays that leave patients and their families in uncertainty and hinder timely treatment.

A pilot programme conducted in London demonstrated that it is feasible to diagnose dementia, develop a personalised care plan, and commence medication within 18 weeks. Supporters say adopting such a deadline nationally could improve outcomes for patients.

Paul Kemp, 59, whose wife Sandra was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s at 53, shared his experience highlighting the difficulties caused by delayed diagnosis. Sandra’s symptoms—initially dismissed as menopause-related or depression—were not properly identified for several years, during which time she did not receive medication. "For two to three years she was on no medication at all, just letting it run wild," Kemp said. He emphasised the emotional toll and practical challenges, noting the couple felt “lost and unsure where to turn,” and that inadequate support persisted even after diagnosis. Kemp urged the government to move beyond discussion and implement clear deadlines to prevent others from enduring similar struggles.

Since March 2020, the NHS has improved dementia diagnosis rates, recently surpassing the target of diagnosing more than two-thirds of cases in England, with 523,081 people now identified. However, approximately one-third of individuals with dementia remain undiagnosed. The Alzheimer’s Society calls for more ambitious goals, citing a survey of 2,000 adults showing dementia is seen as a priority by 56% of respondents—second only to cancer at 75%. The survey also found that 42% considered the introduction of an 18-week maximum wait for diagnosis the most critical measure.

Michelle Dyson, chief executive of the Alzheimer’s Society, stressed the importance of early diagnosis in enabling access to vital support and emerging treatments. She said that the public’s strong backing for urgent action sends a clear message to policymakers. "The government must act now by committing to a maximum 18-week wait for a dementia diagnosis and providing the investment needed to make that target a reality," Dyson remarked.

The Department of Health pointed to recent improvements, including meeting diagnostic targets and appointing a national dementia tsar to coordinate efforts. It highlighted ongoing investments in research and the development of a framework aimed at enhancing care and support but did not commit to a specific timeline for an 18-week diagnosis target. Officials said they would continue to work with the NHS to build on current progress toward improving dementia services nationwide.