Will Use of the Six-Item Cognitive Impairment Test Help to Close the Dementia Diagnosis Gap?

Aim: To measure the frequency of use of the Six-Item Cognitive Impairment Test (6CIT), a local Dementia Commissioning for Quality and Innovation target, prior to patient referral to a dedicated cognitive disorders clinic. Methods: Consecutive new outpatient referral letters were examined over a 6-month period (July–December 2012) for 6CIT use. The final clinical diagnosis was compared with 6CIT score. Frequency of 6CIT use was compared with prior similar surveys in this clinic. Results: Approximately only 5% of new patients had been administered the 6CIT prior to referral, all from primary care. The 6CIT score correlated with final clinical diagnosis in all cases. The frequency of 6CIT use has increased compared with prior surveys in 2004–2006 and 2009–2010 (∼1%). Conclusion: If 6CIT is to facilitate the aims of the Dementia Commissioning for Quality and Innovation in closing the dementia diagnosis gap, more widespread use will be required, with implications for training in its use.