Consensus is lacking on early diagnostic criteria and the exact symptoms of Alzheimers disease (AD). A new, in-office test may help physicians detect the early symptoms of AD, based upon new National Institute of Aging (NIA) criteria. However, a gap exists in knowledge regarding physicians current use or intent to use the new protocols. Choreographing the descriptive AD terminology in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders IV-TR and the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10) is recommended. Thus, the purpose of this study was to understand possible contributing factors to physician's use or intent to use of the new NIA's diagnostic protocol. Data collected from 55 clinicians within two Northern California counties were analyzed using a bivariate test. The two dependent variables were physicians use of, or intent to use, the NIA protocol; the six independent variables were number of years since graduating from medical school, area of specialty, percentage of patients over age 60 years, physician's gender, age, and knowledge about AD, as indicated by performance on the Alzheimers Disease Knowledge Scale.

As a published author and progressive executive leader, I continuously facilitate progressive leadership for positive social change for the betterment of health care. Relationships are central to me for building the highest level of trust and enjoying the collaborative spirit while shaping strategic healthcare for optimal customer services.