IFM | Innovative Diagnostic Tools and Workflows for Suspected Alzheimer’s in Primary Care
Release Date: 05/12/2026
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info_outlineIn this special edition of Inside Family Medicine, sponsored by Roche Diagnostics, host Darren Sextro talks with brain health experts Deanna Willis, MD, MBA, a board-certified family physician, and Jared Brosch, MD, board-certified neurologist, on the use of blood-based biomarkers (BBBMs) in primary care settings for Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. Their discussion explores how BBBMs can make referrals more efficient and enhance the evaluation of patients with cognitive decline. The conversation highlights the value of early diagnosis and therapy referrals as well as outlines effective workflow strategies for primary care teams.
This episode is brought to you by Roche Diagnostics.
Topics by Timestamp
00:00 Introduction
01:03 Meet the experts
02:22 Dr. Willis’ journey
04:32 Dr. Brosch’s journey
05:32 Connection between family medicine and neurology
07:24 New tools for early detection
11:19 Workflow models and biomarkers
14:08 Best practices for referrals
16:35 Biomarkers in practice
19:47 Conclusion and additional resources
Additional Resources:
Roche Diagnostics Elecsys Phospho-Tau (181P) Plasma decision summary
2024 CEOi recommendations for clinical implementation of blood-based biomarkers for Alzheimer's disease: https://doi.org/10.1002/alz.14184
2025 Alzheimer’s Association clinical guidelines for primary care: https://doi.org/10.1002/alz.14333
Implementing early detection of cognitive impairment in primary care to improve care for older adults: https://doi.org/10.1111/joim.20098
FPM journal article: Blood Biomarkers and Early Detection of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias
Brain health hub on AAFP.org including newest brain health resources
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