A comprehensive overview of dementia screening types and costs begins with clearing up the confusion. When your parents start repeating the same stories and forgetting promises, your mind vacillates between anxiety and practicality. You're lost as to where to start, what to do, and how much to spend. This article is about: Dementia testWe will show you the entire process at a glance, A complete summary of dementia test types and costsWe help you calculate the actual costs and support through . Free government-supported screeningfrom Precision tests such as MRI and PET, Health insurance coverage과 Dementia treatment management costsSo far, we have collected only the information that can be used right now. In conclusion, A complete summary of dementia test types and costsenables early detection and cost savings simultaneously.
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A quick overview of dementia screening types and costs.

Dementia testIt is usually divided into three stages: screening (stage 1), precision (stage 2), and identification (stage 3). Screening checks memory and endurance through simple questions and tasks, and precision checks memory and endurance through simple questions and tasks. Neuropsychological testing와 brain imaging testIt broadly assesses cognitive domains. In the discrimination stage, blood test와 genetic testing, PETLet's make the cause more specific. The key is to receive them in order. Dementia Care Center Screening TestIt is free, and if there are any abnormal findings, you can be referred to an affiliated hospital to reduce the cost burden.
Among the guardians I counseled, many regretted that they had booked an MRI at a large hospital right away, but that it would have been simpler and cheaper to start with a screening test at a public health center later. In reality, in the field, MMSE-K와 KDSQ-C The same test First gateIt is very useful in the precision stage. CERAD-K와 Assessment of daily living skillsIt is better to conduct them together to increase diagnostic accuracy.
| item | detail |
|---|---|
| screening test | Free testing at public health centers and dementia care centers, focusing on MMSE-K and KDSQ-C |
| Neuropsychological testing | 60,000-150,000 won, including CERAD-K, takes 1-2 hours |
| blood test | 20,000 to 50,000 won, diagnosis of reversible causes such as thyroid, vitamin, and infection |
| brain CT | 50,000 to 80,000 won, useful for identifying acute lesions and bleeding |
| brain MRI | 150,000 to 300,000 won, brain atrophy and vascular changes assessment, partially covered |
| brain PET | About 600,000 to 1 million won, for metabolic syndrome and Alzheimer's disease diagnosis |
| genetic testing | Over 200,000 to 500,000 won, risk factors such as APOE4 confirmed |
| Issuance of a medical certificate | 10,000 to 30,000 won, for administrative purposes such as long-term care level application |
- Screening tests are free and will be followed by further testing depending on the results.
- MRI and PET may not be covered by insurance depending on the hospital and indication.
- Test costs and items may vary depending on region and hospital policy.
Cost range by examination and health insurance coverage
health insuranceIt applies to multiple items if the purpose of treatment is clear. MRIIf the indication is recognized, the patient's burden is reduced, but, PETmay be non-covered depending on the circumstances. Screening tests are completely free, Neuropsychological and blood testsThe burden is relatively low. In reality, hospital initial consultation fees and imaging interpretation fees are added, so it is recommended to budget for the necessary expenses generously.
For example, if you go to an affiliated hospital with a suspicion of cognitive decline in a screening test, a neuropsychological test will cost around 100,000 won. CT The price is usually around 200,000 won, including around 70,000 won for a blood transfusion and around 30,000 won for a blood transfusion. MRIIf confirmed, the total amount can reach 300,000 won. PET is expensiveTherefore, expert judgment and family agreement are important. From our perspective, a strategy of spreading costs by accumulating evidence step by step is reasonable.
팁 If you bring a referral letter to the affiliated hospital Minimize duplicate testingIt will help you reduce additional costs if you bring your existing test results.
Government Support Programs and Cost-Saving Tips
Dementia Care CenterWe provide screening tests free of charge and, based on the results, Detailed inspection We provide support and consultation after diagnosis. Dementia treatment management costs가 30,000 to 40,000 won per month It is supported at the level of the subsidy, and is mainly used to subsidize outpatient medication and medical expenses. Also, when applying for long-term care level diagnosisSince it is required, plan the issuance schedule together immediately after diagnosis.
Here are some practical tips: First, Visit your local health centerFirst, free screening. Second, prepare the results, ID, and medication list. Third, at the hospital. CERAD-K, Assessment of daily living skills Check whether it is included and the cost. Fourth, in case of confirmation Dementia treatment management costsApply for consultation and care services simultaneously. Small steps can significantly reduce overall costs.
The inspection process and where to get it

The screening route is simple, but requires strategy. The starting point is the public health center or Dementia Care CenterHere it is MMSE-K나 KDSQ-C로 10-20 minute screening testIf you receive a diagnosis of cognitive decline, you will be referred to an affiliated hospital. At the hospital, Neurology Or Department of Psychiatryat Neuropsychological testing와 CT/MRI, if necessary PETIt proceeds until.
- Public health centers are easily accessible and many do not require reservations.
- The Dementia Care Center is a one-stop shop for counseling, cognitive training, and family support.
- Hospitals are advantageous for confirmatory and differential diagnosis, and respond quickly to results.
One thing I've noticed on the ground is that if the accompanying family member prepares a list of questions in advance, the effectiveness of the treatment will significantly increase. Prepare a list of medication history, estimated time of onset, and any changes in daily life. Unnecessary additional testingIt is easy to avoid. The goal is ultimately to get clearer answers at a lower cost.
Actual flow from step 1 to step 3
Let's organize the flow in chronological order. Screening at the public health center in the first week, assignment to an affiliated hospital and initial consultation in the second week, all on the same day. Neuropsychological testingwill be implemented in the 3rd week. MRI or CT Filming, explanation of results and establishment of treatment plan in 4 weeks, if necessary PET Consider testing. If confirmed, immediately Dementia treatment management fee applicationWe provide consultation on long-term care level.
- If you have a family history or rapid onset, consider imaging tests first.
- Depression, sleep apnea, and thyroid disease are reversible
- Before starting medication, check simple lifestyle habits and prepare to prevent falls.
The elderly person I accompanied mild cognitive impairmentI was diagnosed with dementia and underwent follow-up examinations and cognitive training every six months to slow down the rate of functional decline. I regularly organized photos and went for walks. Daily living skillsProtecting it was as important as taking medicine. Dementia testis not the end, but the beginning, makes the beginning smoother.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should people in their 50s also get tested?
If you have symptoms or a strong family history, screening is recommended even for those in their 50s. Public health center Dementia Care CenterThere are also areas where it can be used regardless of age. If memory loss, slow processing speed, or personality changes are observed, Free screening testStart from here. If necessary. Detailed inspectionIt connects quickly.
Do I really need to get a PET scan?
PETis expensive and not necessary in all cases. MRI와 Neuropsychological testingIt may be omitted if the diagnosis is sufficient. It is considered when the diagnosis of Alzheimer's is ambiguous or when clinical suspicion and imaging findings do not match. Consult with the medical staff. Cost-effectivenessPlease judge.
How do I use the genetic testing results?
APOE4 The test suggests risk but is not a definitive test. It is used as a basis for lifestyle management, follow-up observation, and family counseling. Even if the result is positive, It will definitely progress to dementiaIt's not a given, and even if it's negative, the risk doesn't disappear. Avoid excessive anxiety and regular follow-up is recommended.
Where can I get a medical certificate and how much does it cost?
diagnosisIt is used for administrative procedures such as long-term care level applications, welfare support, and workplace documents. It costs between 10,000 and 30,000 won depending on the hospital, and if issued immediately after diagnosis, additional visits to the hospital will be reduced. Please check the list of required documents in advance. Process at onceThis is a way to reduce costs and time.
I'm still anxious even though my results came back normal. When would be a good time to get a re-examination?
Even if symptoms persist, follow-up at 6-12 month intervals is recommended. mild cognitive impairmentWhen there is a suspicion, a 6-month cycle is appropriate. If the family records the changes they feel, checks the medications taken, and sleep status together, Early signalscan capture more accurately.
Let's recap. First, Free screening tests at public health centers and dementia care centersStart with and move on to a more detailed examination if necessary. Second, MRI와 PETis selected step by step by comparing indications and costs. Third, after confirmation, Dementia treatment management costsApply for both childcare and support all at once.
Your choices today will protect your daily life tomorrow. If you have any doubts, knock on the door of a nearby dementia care center now. This article Dementia testI hope this guide will actually help you move through the entire process. Finally, A complete summary of dementia test types and costsAs the title suggests, there is definitely a way to save your time and money.