For years, an Alzheimer’s diagnosis often came only after months—or even years—of uncertainty. Today, advances in diagnostic testing and treatment are changing that reality, giving patients access to earlier answers and new therapies that can slow the progression of disease. 

At St. Clair Health, those advances are supported by a coordinated dementia care program led by neurologist Maxim D. Hammer, MD, MBA, Chief of Neurology, and Maria Abraham, DMSc, MBA, MPAS, PA-C, Director of the Neuroscience Service Line, who have helped create a streamlined approach that begins in primary care and guides patients through diagnosis, treatment and ongoing support. 

“Alzheimer’s disease begins in the brain years before symptoms become obvious,” says Dr. Hammer. “The ability to identify patients earlier gives us opportunities to intervene that simply weren’t available a few years ago.” 

That early identification often starts with a patient’s primary care provider. According to Mario J. Fatigati, MD, FACP, CMD, of St. Clair Medical Group Internal Medicine, subtle memory changes, difficulty finding words or changes in behavior are often first discussed during routine office visits. 

“Patients don’t always recognize these symptoms right away, and sometimes it’s family members who notice them first,” says Dr. Fatigati. “Primary care plays an important role in identifying patients who may benefit from cognitive screening and making sure they get to the right next step quickly.” 

Once concerns are identified, patients are referred for a comprehensive neurological evaluation that may include cognitive testing, laboratory work, advanced imaging and new blood-based biomarker testing. 

For Maria Abraham, building that seamless process was personal. Having watched her own mother live with Alzheimer’s disease, she understood how overwhelming a fragmented healthcare system can be for patients and caregivers. 

“Our goal was to create an end-to-end experience,” Abraham says. “From the moment concerns are identified, patients and families have a team guiding them through every step of the process.” 

That coordinated approach made a difference for patient Mary Jane Busic, who sought medical attention after noticing increasing forgetfulness and difficulty finding words. Through comprehensive evaluation, she received a diagnosis of early-stage Alzheimer’s disease and learned she was a candidate for one of a newer class of medications designed to slow disease progression by targeting amyloid plaque in the brain. 

“I found out I had Alzheimer’s,” Mary Jane says. “But I also found out there was something I could do about it.” 

She now receives regular infusions at St. Clair Health’s Sipe Infusion Center, where her care team closely monitors her treatment. 

While these therapies are not a cure, Dr. Hammer says they represent an important shift in Alzheimer’s care. 

“The earlier we evaluate cognitive changes, the more options we may have,” he says. “Early diagnosis allows us to provide the right care, connect patients with appropriate resources and, for some, begin treatments that can make a meaningful difference.” 

Providing that care close to home is equally important, Abraham says. Patients with memory disorders often face significant challenges traveling between multiple specialists, making coordinated local care invaluable for both patients and caregivers. 

“Receiving care in a familiar environment reduces stress and helps families focus on what matters most,” Abraham says. “We’re able to provide advanced treatment while supporting patients throughout the entire journey.” 

As research continues to expand treatment options, one message remains clear: if you or a loved one notice changes in memory or thinking, don’t dismiss them as simply part of aging. Start the conversation with your primary care provider. Earlier evaluation can lead to earlier answers—and for some patients, access to treatments that can help preserve quality of life.