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Background The limited allocation of resources to rural and regional communities is a major contributor to healthcare inequities in Australia. Distribution of health service resources between metropolitan and rural communities commonly sees highly populated areas prioritised over more sparsely populated and geographically vast areas. As such, challenges impacting dementia diagnosis, management, and care in metropolitan areas are experienced more acutely in rural areas. This study aimed to examine equity of access to dementia diagnosis, management, and care services amongst people who experienced the process of dementia diagnosis as a patient or significant other (partner/spouse, adult children, siblings, and friends) throughout rural and metropolitan Australia. Methods This exploratory qualitative study consisted of thirty-three online semi-structured interviews with thirty-seven people with experience of the dementia diagnosis process as a patient and/or significant other. Interviews explored symptoms of dementia, health professionals consulted, tests conducted, and challenges faced throughout the diagnosis and post-diagnosis process. Rurality was defined by the Australian Statistical Geography Standard Remoteness Areas (ASGS-RA) and the Modified Monash Model (MMM). Thematic analysis was conducted, with Russell’s (2013) Dimensions of Access framework (geography, affordability, availability, acceptability, accommodation, awareness, and timeliness) guiding data analysis. Results Participants were distributed across various regions of Australia: seven interviews from inner regional Australia, five interviews from outer regional Australia, and twenty-one interviews from metropolitan areas. Disparities in access between metropolitan and rural areas emerged in five key dimensions: 1) geography impeding ability to access services; 2) affordability of travel expenses; 3) availability of healthcare and support services; 4) acceptability of available health professionals and services; and 5) awareness of local services and resources. The dimensions of accommodation and timeliness of care were experienced as challenges irrespective of location, with lengthy appointment wait times and difficulty navigating complex systems. However, rurality often compounded the challenges in dementia diagnosis, management, and care. Conclusions Significant health inequities persist between rural and metropolitan communities that must be prioritised in endeavours to promote equitable dementia diagnosis, management, and care. Targeted action to address disparities is vital to mitigate the impact of rurality, particularly as clinical practice evolves with research advancements.

INTRODUCTION Diagnosis of young‐onset dementia (YOD) is often delayed due to atypical presentations and lack of awareness. This study explored diagnostic experiences in Australia. METHODS This Joint Solutions sub‐study employed a mixed‐methods approach. Surveys and focus groups targeted people with YOD, caregivers, and clinicians across Australia. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and comparisons, while qualitative data underwent thematic analysis. RESULTS There were 313 participants, mostly female and nearly half representing lived experience. The average age at symptom onset was 55.8 years, and at diagnosis, 57.9 years. Positive aspects included timely diagnoses and involvement of specialized clinicians. Clinicians emphasized comprehensive history‐taking and a multifaceted diagnostic approach. Geographical barriers, variations in diagnosis delivery, and caregiver education needs were noted. DISCUSSION This study highlights improved diagnostic timelines but ongoing barriers in YOD knowledge and equitable access to care. Raising awareness, improving clinician education, and streamlining referral processes are essential. Highlights Timeliness of younger‐onset dementia diagnosis appears to have improved in Australia. Access to care varies in availability and quality, with no standardized pathways. Knowledge of younger‐onset dementia is lacking in both healthcare and the community. Comprehensive history‐taking and a multifaceted diagnostic approach are crucial. Clinician sensitivity is valued, balanced with tailored education on diagnosis.