HOSPITALS will be set new targets for the early diagnosis of dementia as part of a package of improvements announced by public health minister Shona Robison.

HOSPITALS will be set new targets for the early diagnosis of dementia as part of a package of improvements announced by public health minister Shona Robison.

From next April, individual health boards will be assessed and given targets to meet nationally agreed standards of diagnosis within three years.

The minister also outlined plans for a new body to oversee improvements in mental health care and guidance on support for people with drug problems.

Speaking at the One Year On mental health conference in Edinburgh, Ms Robison said: "Today's new announcement aims to see more people with dementia diagnosed at the earliest opportunity.

"This will ensure families have time to plan, prepare and enjoy their lives as much as possible.

"We will be looking to NHS boards to achieve agreed improvements."

Ms Robison went on to announce that the Mental Health Collaborative will be up and running, with a national programme manager appointed, by the end of next year.

"The new appointee will be working across the NHS to drive change around two of the current targets for mental health, including prescribing of antidepressants and reducing by 10% the number of people who get re-admitted into acute psychiatric units," she added.

"Meanwhile, the guidance on support for people with substance misuse and mental health problems will bring about a better co-ordinated approach.

"The report sets out a framework for key agencies, locally and nationally, to work together, and improve awareness and support for patients and their families dealing with substance misuse and mental health problems."