Projected effect of a high performing blood test on wait times for determination of Alzheimer's disease pathology in the United States.
Publication Title
Journal of Alzheimer's disease : JAD
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
9-1-2026
Keywords
Humans; Alzheimer Disease; Positron-Emission Tomography; United States; Female; Male; Biomarkers; Waiting Lists; Aged; Amyloid beta-Peptides; Time Factors; Alzheimer's disease; amyloid-targeting treatments; blood biomarker; clinical utility; health system capacity; wait times; california; pni; santa monica
Abstract
BackgroundBlood tests for Alzheimer's disease (AD) are emerging as alternative to amyloid positron emission tomography (PET) scans and analysis of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). However, their effect on clinical decision-making and subsequent wait times in the diagnostic process remain unclear.ObjectiveTo estimate wait times in the diagnostic process to determine potential eligibility for amyloid-targeting treatments.MethodsWe used a structured expert consultation process to elicit how a blood test to rule out or to confirm AD pathology would inform decisions in primary and secondary care and a Markov model to project how those decisions would affect wait times for specialist visits and amyloid PET scans.ResultsCompared with referral decisions based on the results of a brief cognitive assessment, the addition of an AD blood test is projected to reduce wait times for subsequent specialist appointments by 35%. A blood test for confirmation of AD pathology would also eliminate wait times for amyloid PET scans.ConclusionsHigh-performing AD blood tests have the potential to streamline the diagnostic journey and reduce wait times.
Area of Special Interest
Neurosciences (Brain & Spine)
Specialty/Research Institute
Neurosciences
Specialty/Research Institute
Internal Medicine
DOI
10.1177/13872877261467345
