Medefer and Head Diagnostics are collaborating on a new dementia assessment pathway designed to give people who are concerned about changes in their memory a faster, clearer route to assessment.

The service will combine a comprehensive digital cognitive testing battery with consultant-led specialist input to support earlier diagnosis. It is being backed by grant funding from Eisai Ltd, which had no influence or involvement other than financial support. The announcement coincides with the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference (AAIC) 2026 in London, taking place from 12 to 15 July.

The partners said the approach aims to provide earlier clarity, especially for people under 65 who often face greater barriers to assessment. Medefer will bring its established remote-first, technology-enabled model—used to deliver care to more than 170,000 patients—to dementia assessment for the first time. The self-funded service will be available directly without a referral, and the companies intend to broaden the model over time. Medefer will act as clinical lead, overseeing the pathway and delivery. The service is being built in two stages. First, an initial memory assessment centred on Head Diagnostics’ HDx Cognition platform will deploy a clinically validated digital cognitive battery, benchmarked against traditional paper-based tests. This assessment will be available in cognition clinics or, with support, at home, under consultant oversight, with advice provided on whether further evaluation is appropriate. Those who need it can then proceed, via a remote, consultant-led service, to a formal diagnosis of dementia, including blood tests, an MRI brain scan and testing for Alzheimer’s disease where relevant. The offering covers assessment and diagnosis only. The first cognition clinics are being established, with plans to expand as early learnings are incorporated.

To complement clinical care, Medefer will integrate dementia coordinator support to help individuals and families understand a diagnosis and connect with practical help, guidance and local services.

Dr Edward Bosonnet, Primary Care Director, Medefer Ltd, said: "HDx Cognition brings clinically validated digitised cognitive testing into everyday settings, enabling earlier identification of Mild Cognitive Impairment before symptoms become entrenched. By detecting subtle cognitive changes at the point of first concern, we help ensure patients reach expert review sooner. We are pleased to work with Medefer to turn that earlier insight into prompt, specialist-led answers."

David van Zuydam, Chief Executive Officer, Head Diagnostics, said: "As a company focused on dementia, we believe that earlier and more accurate diagnosis is critical so that patients and their families have more time to prepare for the future. We are delighted to support Medefer and Head Diagnostics with grant funding to help make it possible."

Pam Ganju, Vice President, Specialist Care Business Group, Eisai, said: "Head Diagnostics is an excellent example of the innovative companies emerging from Ireland’s medtech sector. By applying advanced digital technology to support earlier cognitive assessment, the company is helping address a significant healthcare challenge. This collaboration with Medefer has the potential to improve access to specialist assessment and provide earlier clarity for patients and their families. Enterprise Ireland is proud to support Head Diagnostics as it continues to scale internationally and bring innovative Irish healthcare solutions to global markets."