The Danish Dementia Research Centre: Integrating patient care, clinical research, and national educational services.

Abstract

The Copenhagen Memory Clinic was established in 1995 and since 2007 a new national center for research and education was established, together forming the Danish Dementia Research Centre (DDRC). Our research and innovation programs have continuously been informed by clinical experience and inspired by the needs of our patients. The link between patient care, research, and education forming together a comprehensive dementia center is therefore of crucial importance. In this review, we present an overview of the clinical program at the Copenhagen Memory Clinic, currently receiving 2.000 new referrals per year. We also present the Copenhagen Memory Clinic Cohort and the associated biobank, as well as clinical, translational and epidemiological research programs performed at DDRC during the past 30 years. Funded in part by the Danish Ministry of Health, our national outreach, professional networks and educational programs are also outlined. From its inception and onwards the primary focus of the DDRC has been with the patients, aiming to continuously improve our clinical service based on research and innovation and to improve the quality of care nationwide. We welcome requests for collaboration on research, innovation and education from international colleagues and research centers.