This pilot implements systematic early cognitive screening in primary health care (PHC) using the GPCOG and MoCA tools. Patients aged 40–85 with hypertension and selected comorbidities or risk factors attend a one-time structured assessment at the LSMU Hospital Kauno Klinikos Family Medicine Department or are questioned/screened at home. PHC specialists are trained in standardised screening methods. Participants with suspected cognitive impairment are referred to a clinical psychologist and, where indicated, to a specialist according to the Lithuanian health care referral pathway. The pilot responds to the challenge of under-detection of cognitive decline at the PHC level and aims to establish an evidence-based action plan for dementia screening in Lithuania.

To develop and validate a systematic action plan for early dementia screening and detection in primary health care, targeting adults with elevated risk for cognitive impairment.

1. To determine the prevalence of suspected cognitive impairment among at-risk patients in PHC and analyse associations with known risk factors To compare the sensitivity and specificity of GPCOG in the PHC setting and develop screening recommendations.

Improved timely detection of cognitive impairment at the PHC level; validated Lithuanian-context screening pathway using GPCOG and MoCA; evidence-based recommendations for early cognitive screening; increased referral rate of at-risk patients to specialist care; reduced diagnostic delay for dementia in Lithuania.

Not available yet

Not available yet. Lessons will be documented during implementation, covering barriers to screening uptake, facilitators such as professional training and structured referral pathways, and practical recommendations for scaling the approach within the Lithuanian PHC system.

The pilot is designed for integration into routine PHC practice in Lithuania through institutional embedding at LSMU and adoption of standardised tools (GPCOG) already validated in multiple languages and countries. The screening protocol and training materials can be adapted for other PHC settings across EU member states, particularly those seeking to implement early dementia detection within existing health care structures without requiring additional specialist infrastructure.

The pilot improves awareness and understanding of dementia risk factors, early warning signs, and the importance of timely cognitive assessment among both patients and PHC professionals. By integrating structured screening into routine consultations, it normalises cognitive health monitoring and empowers patients to engage proactively with brain health. Training of PHC specialists enhances professional health literacy, supporting earlier, more informed clinical decision-making regarding cognitive decline.