Virginia 2023 Regular Session

Virginia House Bill HJR544

Introduced
1/11/23  

Caption

Alzheimer's Disease; Joint Commission on Health, etc., to study treatment.

Impact

The passage of HJR544 has the potential to influence state healthcare policies significantly, particularly in terms of treatment options for Alzheimer's patients and the training of healthcare professionals. By outlining specific areas for investigation, such as insurance coverage for diagnostic tools and therapeutics, the bill seeks to address gaps in care and reduce the financial and emotional burden on caregivers. The anticipation is that the findings could lead to enhanced public health measures and improved access to necessary healthcare services, thus positively impacting the quality of life for those affected by Alzheimer's.

Summary

HJR544 is a resolution that directs the Joint Commission on Health Care and the Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders Commission to conduct a comprehensive study on the treatment of Alzheimer's disease in Virginia. The aim of the study is to analyze various aspects of Alzheimer's treatment including continuing medical education for healthcare providers, public health education strategies for both patients and caregivers, and the inclusion of advanced treatment options within the Commonwealth's Alzheimer's plans. This resolution recognizes the substantial impact Alzheimer's has on the lives of approximately 150,000 Virginia residents aged over 65, highlighting the need for effective treatment strategies and support systems.

Contention

While the resolution has garnered support due to its focus on healthcare improvements, there is an underlying concern regarding the comprehensive nature of the study and whether it would adequately address the urgent needs of Alzheimer's patients and their families. Critics could argue that studying the issue is merely a way to delay action, and there may be calls for immediate legislative changes or increased funding for Alzheimer’s treatment and caregiver support. Thus, the resolution marks a critical first step, but its effectiveness ultimately hinges on the subsequent actions taken by the General Assembly based on the study's recommendations.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

VA S4073

Requires health insurance and Medicaid coverage for testing and treatments to slow progression of Alzheimer's disease and related disorders.

VA A5062

Requires health insurance and Medicaid coverage for testing and treatments to slow progression of Alzheimer's disease and related disorders.

VA HB1033

Georgia Access to Healthcare for Alzheimer's Disease and Dementias Act; enact

VA A1557

Establishes "New Jersey Alzheimer's Disease Master Plan Study Commission."

VA S1243

Establishes "New Jersey Alzheimer's Disease Master Plan Study Commission."

VA S0578

Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Initiative

VA S1320

Requires health insurers to provide coverage for treatment of tick-borne diseases.

VA SB2589

Relating To Alzheimer's Disease.

VA SB2657

Relating To Alzheimer's Disease And Related Dementias Research.

VA HB1597

Relating To Alzheimer's Disease And Related Dementias Research.

Similar Bills

NJ S1243

Establishes "New Jersey Alzheimer's Disease Master Plan Study Commission."

NJ A1557

Establishes "New Jersey Alzheimer's Disease Master Plan Study Commission."

NJ S1250

Requires DHS to establish Alzheimer's disease public awareness campaign.

WV HB4474

Extending the Alzheimer’s Disease and Other Dementia Advisory Council sunset date.

WV SB604

Extending Alzheimer's Disease and Other Dementia Advisory Council sunset date

HI SCR203

Requesting The University Of Hawaii To Explore The Feasibility Of Establishing An Alzheimer's Disease Research Center And Identify The Requirements For Receiving Federal Funding From The National Institute On Aging For Alzheimer's Disease Research.

HI HR30

Requesting The University Of Hawaii To Explore The Feasibility Of Establishing An Alzheimer's Disease Research Center And Identify The Requirements For Receiving Federal Funding From The National Institute On Aging For Alzheimer's Disease Research.

HI SR163

Requesting The University Of Hawaii To Explore The Feasibility Of Establishing An Alzheimer's Disease Research Center And Identify The Requirements For Receiving Federal Funding From The National Institute On Aging For Alzheimer's Disease Research.