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U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Community Health Representative

CHR Mini-Cog Screening Pilot

nurses walking in a hallway

The IHS Alzheimer's Program provides funding to support Community Health Representative (CHR) programs to test screenings and other dementia-related services through short-term pilot projects.

The CHR Mini-Cog Screening Pilot is a multi-year project testing how well the Mini-Cog tool works to screen patients for memory and thinking issues in community settings. The project also helps develop a referral process for individuals needing follow-up care.

Project Goals

The CHR Mini-Cog Screening Pilot is designed to:

  • Increase dementia and Alzheimer’s awareness in American Indian and Alaska Native communities
  • Build peer-to-peer learning networks for CHRs
  • Improve data collection and documentation of screenings

Why Are CHRs Important in Dementia Care?

CHRs play a key role in supporting people with dementia and their caregivers. CHRs can:

  • Promote early detection and diagnosis.
  • Educate communities about dementia and brain health.
  • Connect individuals and families to local resources and support services.

What should people know about CHRs?

  • CHR-led cognitive screening works: Community Health Representatives can effectively and appropriately administer the Mini-Cog in community settings, reaching individuals who may not otherwise access care.
  • Early identification matters: Screening increases awareness of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias and helps identify individuals who may benefit from further evaluation and support.
  • CHRs are a critical workforce: As trusted community members, CHRs are uniquely positioned to reduce stigma, engage patients, and bridge gaps between communities and the health care system.
  • Integration is the next step: The full impact of screening depends on strengthening referral pathways, provider engagement, and CHR–clinical care coordination.
  • The model is scalable with support: With appropriate training, resources, and system alignment, CHR-led screening can be expanded and sustained across programs.
  • CHR-led screening is feasible and effective: CHRs can successfully deliver cognitive screening in community settings, increasing access and identifying individuals at risk who might otherwise go unrecognized.
  • Early detection and awareness are critical: Community-based screening helps normalize conversations about dementia and supports earlier identification and connection to care.
  • Stronger integration will maximize impact: Expanding this model requires improved referral pathways, provider engagement, and alignment between CHR programs and clinical care systems.

To learn more about Alzheimer's and Dementia, visit the Alzheimer's program website.

For more information on the Mini-Cog tool, visit the Mini-Cog website.Exit Disclaimer: You Are Leaving www.ihs.gov 

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