Kent and Medway Brain Health Clinic Pilot Study v.1
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Feasibility and acceptability of a new Kent and Medway Brain Health Clinic: A pilot study of a streamlined cognitive disorders assessment using blood biomarkers, ultra-low field MRI and electronic cognitive testing
IRAS ID
370071
Contact name
Joanne Rodda
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Kent
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
Memory assessment services in the UK are under increasing pressure. More people are being referred, waiting times are often long, and there are inequalities across the country. This means many people do not get timely answers about the cause of their memory problems or the right support soon enough. Assessment often involves several separate appointments in different places, and waiting for brain scans is often a bottleneck in the pathway. New clinical tests including computerised cognitive testing, ultra-low-field MRI and blood tests that can detect specific signs of Alzheimer’s disease, offer the potential to enhance existing pathways by improving accuracy of diagnosis, timeliness and accessibility.
This pilot study aims to assess patients and carers experience of a new model of memory clinic, and whether it may be preferred over the current pathway. Patients who have recently completed a routine memory assessment and received a diagnosis within Kent and Medway Mental Health NHS Trust will be invited to attend the Kent and Medway Brain Health Clinic (KMBHC). Multiple clinical tests will be delivered during a single study visit and will include ultra-low-field MRI brain imaging and a blood-based biomarker for Alzheimer’s disease. Computerised cognitive testing and lifestyle questionnaires will be completed either at home or on the day, according to participant preference. Following completion of all the tests and feedback of results to participants, everyone will be offered a separate lifestyle appointment focused on modifiable risk factors for improving brain health.
In this pilot study of the KMBHC we will gather participant and carer opinions on this new service style by questionnaire and interview, and determine if the process was acceptable to patients. Findings will inform the potential for and design of future memory clinic services.
REC name
London - Surrey Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
26/PR/0708
Date of REC Opinion
17 Jul 2026
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion