In an ongoing commitment to delivering quality, compassionate care to those experiencing the effects of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, Montefiore, which combines the expertise and best-in-class practices of the Montefiore Einstein Center for the Aging Brain (CAB) and Burke Rehabilitation's Memory Evaluation and Treatment Services (METS), has been designated as the exclusive Center of Excellence for Alzheimer’s Disease serving the seven county region of the Hudson Valley.

The 5-year, $2.1M grant from the New York State Department of Health will create a new clinical partnership between CAB and METS that will expand cognitive screening, diagnosis and care planning efforts. It will also provide training of primary care providers throughout the region who can help screen for and diagnose cognitive impairment and make referrals to specialists and community-based organizations that support those impacted by Alzheimer’s. Additionally, the availability of clinical trials will increase for patients with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, and telephone and video consultation will be provided to area healthcare providers.

The Center of Excellence for Alzheimer’s Disease (CEAD) will capitalize on the research and the training capabilities of Albert Einstein College of Medicine, of which Montefiore is the University Hospital for, as well as an expanding network of hospitals and physician groups in the Hudson Valley.

Launched in June 2014, Montefiore Einstein’s Center for the Aging Brain provides evaluation and treatment for illnesses and quality-of-life issues associated with aging. The Center serves both older individuals and people who fall outside the traditional "geriatric" category, with assessment for cognition, gait and function, psychological state, complex disease management, end-of-life issues and long-term care planning. It also provides comprehensive resources to help support caregivers.

According to Jessica Zwerling, M.D., M.S., director, Memory Disorders Center, associate director, Montefiore Einstein Center for the Aging Brain, assistant professor, Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Program Director, UCNS Geriatric Neurology Fellowship, “The Center for Alzheimer’s Excellence will allow us to further break down the walls between our outpatient practice and community-based organizations.” Dr. Zwerling, who serves as a program director for the newly awarded Center of Excellence, said, “it will continue focus on the caregiver-patient relationship while providing additional means for a seamless process. We are looking forward to expanding our comprehensive services in the Hudson Valley region."

Joe Verghese, M.B.B.S., director, Montefiore Einstein Center for the Aging Brain, chief, Integrated Divisions of Cognitive & Motor Aging (Neurology) and Geriatrics (Medicine) at Montefiore and Einstein and professor in the Saul R. Korey Department of Neurology and of Medicine at Einstein, will serve as advisor to the Center of Excellence.

Opened in 1979, Burke’s Memory Evaluation and Treatment Services (METS) program provides comprehensive outpatient assessment and treatment of memory disorders. While some types of problems with memory are “normal” as one grows older, others are the first signs of disease, such as dementia, stroke, Parkinson’s disease or Alzheimer’s disease. An evaluation, which can be done through the METS program, is necessary whenever memory problems interfere with relationships, work, finances, and other routine activities of daily living. Memory may be improved in some cases or the progression of memory loss slowed with early treatment of disorders such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

Co-director of the planned Center of Excellence for Alzheimer’s Disease, Barry D. Jordan, M.D., who is assistant medical director and director of the METS program at Burke Rehabilitation Hospital believes, “The new grant will allow Burke to continue its longstanding commitment to providing services to patients with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. We will be working collaboratively with Montefiore to build upon the solid foundation both organizations have established in this area over the years.”