Models of Physician Education for Alzheimer' s Disease and Dementia: Practical Application in an Integrated Network.

Two models were used to provide ongoing education about Alzheimer's disease for primary care physicians in a Veterans Health Administration (VHA) network including 8 facilities. The Train the Trainer model developed by the John A. Hartford Foundation and the American Geriatrics Society was used to prepare physician leaders to conduct Memory Loss Tool Kit sessions for colleagues in their VHA settings. Videoconference techniques were used to present case-based Grand Rounds about best practices around particular patient situations. Methods and evaluation of both programs are discussed. Successful follow-through by physician leaders requires ongoing incentives and support. The Videoconference Grand Rounds Program requires skill to initiate and maintain effective technology. Both programs demonstrate successful outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]