June 12, 2013
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 12, 2013
For more information,
Contact: Jennifer Lawson
Moxley Carmichael
865-544-0088
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When Tennova’s Geriatric Assessment Program closed in May, the families of its 2,500 patients weren’t sure where to turn for help, but three long-time elder care professionals have teamed up to open a center to meet their needs.
The Center for Memory Management will offer screenings, evaluation and ongoing case management of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. A special information session on June 18 will allow caregivers to learn more about the center’s services.
“When GAP closed, the families of its 2,500 patients didn’t know where to turn for replacement services. That need was the impetus behind creating the center,” said Carolyn Pointer Neil, president of Elder Advocates.
The center is a partnership between Elder Advocates and Psychiatric Concepts, which is staffed by psychiatrist Dr. Vijay Jethanandani and nurse practitioner Gene Pickett, who is dual-certified in psychiatry and family practice. The center will operate out of Psychiatric Concepts, 2620 Mineral Springs Ave., Suite A, in North Knoxville; 865-686-0508.
Pickett said after Tennova closed GAP, he contacted Neil to collaborate on a solution.
“There are 2,500 patients here being left without a provider. We have to do something about this,” Pickett said.
The information session will give prospective clients an overview of memory loss, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, as well as the center’s services. Those attending will have the opportunity to ask questions and schedule appointments.
“We wanted to get this information out now, because we know many children and grandchildren will visit their loved ones around Fathers’ Day,” Neil said. “Often holidays are occasions when families may notice changes and become concerned about their elderly loved ones. We hope this information session will help people determine the best course of action for their families.”
The free information session on Tuesday, June 18, will begin at 5:30 p.m. at Eastminster Presbyterian Church, 4904 Asheville Highway. Those planning to attend may RSVP by calling 865-247-0321 or by email to [email protected].
About the providers:
Carolyn Pointer Neil, R.N., has 28 years of experience, including long-term acute care and post-acute in the Home Care and Nursing Home/Assisted Living settings. Neil founded Elder Advocates to guide elders and their families/caregivers through the most difficult stages of life and help them successfully navigate our complex health care system.
Vijay Jethanandani, M.D., MBA, has been a leading geriatric psychiatrist in Knoxville for 30 years. He was a founding Psychiatrist of the original Geriatric Assessment Program and continues to practice geriatric psychiatry, providing both in-patient and out-patient services. Dr. Jethanandai serves as the new center’s supervising physician as well as providing patient services.
Gene Pickett, N.P., is dually certified as a Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Pickett founded Psychiatric Concepts in 2003 and in 2009 developed Spectrum Health Associates, a medical staffing company for tertiary care facilities. Pickett and Dr. Jethanandani have been partners for 10 years. Pickett manages the health physical and psychological care needs of our aging population in various settings: physician’s office, long-term care facilities, assisted living facilities and acute care hospital.
