Memory Clinic
Person to Person: Amanda Pins, RN, BSN
For Iowans suffering from dementia, a major shift in routine like that caused by COVID-19 can be devastating. Mercy Memory Clinic Nurse Clinician, Amanda Pins, understands this firsthand. Learn more in this interview from Iowa's News Now (Nov. 24, 2020).
Mercy’s Memory Clinic helps people – of any age – determine whether their concern is dementia or a normal part of aging.
Our specialized team will assess the person’s abilities by interacting with them and their family member or friend.
Memory Clinic Team:
- Providers: Neurologists Bob Struthers, MD; Renee Buchanan, MD; or Lindsay Ehlers, ARNP, will review the diagnostic workup, coordinate the plan of care and medication management, and, if requested by the referring physician, initiate a full neurological evaluation.
- Neuropsychologist: Ellie Snavely, PhD, performs neuropsychological testing, assists in diagnosis and assesses competency, as needed.
- Pharmacist: Completes a comprehensive medication review
- Nurse: Administers cognitive testing and helps patients and their family members develop strategies to compensate for their changing capabilities
A physician’s referral to the clinic is not required. Following the patient evaluation, a conference is held with the patient, family members, clinic team and other referral sources as appropriate. The patient’s abilities are reassessed and assistance is provided to the family during follow-up visits.