Originally published: . Volume 12, No. 7. Source pages: 6.
Gov. Edwards signed HB 379 by Rep. White into Act 73, a measure about public health programs and services related to Alzheimer's disease and other dementias Act 73 states that the legislature is aware of the importance of early detection and timely diagnosis of cognitive impairment and dementia. The new law provides that it is in the public interest that information be provided to better understand Alzheimer's disease and other dementia diseases and increase awareness. Also, it states that it is public policy of the state that the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) provide consistent guidance and effective education programs to healthcare providers across the state. Act 73 provides that LDH may educate healthcare providers on the following: (1) The importance of effective care planning, including treatment options, support and services, long-term care options, advanced directives, and care at every stage of Alzheimer's disease and other dementia diseases to include appropriate counseling. (2) The use of validated cognitive assessment tools. The new law states that the LDH office of public health may provide information that does all of the following: (1) Increases awareness of Alzheimer's disease and other dementia diseases including any link to chronic disease, such as vascular risk factors. (2) Advises the public of the value of early detection of Alzheimer's disease and other dementia diseases along with information on the early signs of such diseases. (3) Educates the public on the importance of identifying and reporting signs of Alzheimer's disease and other dementia diseases to healthcare providers for timely diagnosis. (4) Increases data and surveillance applicable to Alzheimer's disease and other dementia diseases and encourages additional data analysis and accurate reporting on death certificates. Further Act 73 provides that LDH shall consult with and seek input from the Louisiana chapter of the Alzheimer's Association, along with other experts, advocates, or associations, when promulgating such rules and regulations.
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