Your experiences of the Memory Assessment Service (MAS) in Sussex
In April 2024, the three local Healthwatch in Sussex sought experiences of the Memory Assessment Service (MAS).
The Memory Assessment Service undertakes assessments of memory problems (including diagnosis of dementia) via a thorough review of cognition and effects on functioning.
We heard:
53 people from across Sussex shared their views with us.
- Around one quarter (26.7%) had waited or are currently waiting over 6 months for their first appointment with the MAS.
- The majority were very satisfied or satisfied (53.2%) with the information they received before their first visit to the MAS.
- People had received help from a support service such as the Alzheimer’s society (38.3%) and a named person they could phone or email (29.8%). However, 23.4% received no support.
- In terms of the recent temporary reduction of services in some areas of Sussex (from January to end of March 2024), 21.7% said it negatively affected the support that they needed and delayed their appointment at the MAS (19.6%). However, one-third were not aware (32.6%) and 21.7% said the temporary closures had no impact.
What next?
We have already shared the results from our poll with the Sussex Partnership Foundation Trust, who deliver the Memory Assessment Service (MAS). We received a response from their Chief Executive thanking us for the report and promising to feed the results into their new strategy, which they are currently developing and which will set their priorities for the coming years. The results will also be shared with those who are leading the MAS services.
