Cognitive Dementia and Memory Service (CDAMS)

The Cognitive Dementia and Memory Service (CDAMS) is a specialist, multidisciplinary diagnostic service for adults who are concerned about changes in memory, thinking, or cognition. CDAMS provides comprehensive assessment to support early and accurate diagnosis, information about treatment options, education and support, future planning advice, and referral to appropriate health and community services.

Who is CDAMS for?

CDAMS is for people who:

  • Are experiencing ongoing changes in memory or thinking
  • Do not already have a diagnosis of dementia
  • Are typically aged over 50 years (younger people may be considered in some circumstances)

Some forgetfulness can be a normal part of ageing. If memory or thinking problems are becoming more noticeable, progressive, or affecting everyday life, an assessment may be helpful.

Eligibility – Who can be referred?

You may be suitable for CDAMS if:

  • You have had changes in memory, thinking, or cognition for several months
  • You are medically stable
  • You are able and willing to attend several appointments
  • If memory changes occurred during a recent illness, assessment may be delayed until you have recovered to ensure symptoms are not due to delirium.

Who is not suitable for CDAMS?

CDAMS is a diagnostic service and is not able to accept referrals for:

  • People who have a confirmed diagnosis of dementia; CDAMS is a diagnostic service. 
  • Sudden or rapidly developing memory problems that have occurred over days or weeks — these require urgent medical review by a GP or emergency department
  • Neuropsychology assessment only 
  • Capacity assessments only, including testamentary capacity or medicolegal disputes. 
  • Baseline memory tests when there are no current concerns or changes 
  • People with longstanding acquired brain injury or intellectual impairment without evidence of more recent cognitive change.

If CDAMS is not the right service, your GP may be able to advise on alternative options.

What to expect at CDAMS

  • A detailed assessment of memory, thinking, and daily functioning
  • Review of medical history and medications
  • Possible further testing or investigations, if required
  • Involvement of a family member or support person is encouraged
  • A feedback session to discuss results and next steps

How to access CDAMS

Your GP can help determine which service is most appropriate and submit a referral on your behalf.
  • All referrals to be sent to our HIP Central intake unit.
  • Fax: (03) 9231 2202
  • Email: HipCentralReferrals@svha.org.au
  • Enquiries phone: (03) 9231 8577

Our Location

CDAMS is based at St George’s Health Service in Kew, which is part of St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne. It is serviced by both trams and buses on Cotham Road. 

The address is:
St George’s Health Service
283 Cotham Road, Kew, 3101 

 

Limited disabled parking is available at the front of the hospital (enter via Cotham Rd) and further parking is available at the rear of the hospital for a fee (enter off Normanby Street).