Bill > HB1055

This bill establishes mandatory coverage for diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer's disease and other dementia-related diseases under the State and Public School Life and Health Insurance Program. The legislation recognizes Alzheimer's as the seventh leading cause of death in Arkansas and aims to provide comprehensive medical coverage starting January 1, 2026. The bill requires health benefit plans to cover FDA-approved treatments and medications designed to slow the progression of Alzheimer's or dementia, including necessary diagnostic testing. Importantly, the coverage must be determined by a licensed physician and will not be subject to step therapy protocols, which typically require patients to try less expensive treatments before more advanced therapies. The bill emphasizes that diagnosing and treating these conditions should be a clinical decision based on evidence-based guidelines. By mandating this coverage, the legislation seeks to address the high costs associated with late-stage Alzheimer's and improve early intervention and treatment options for state and public school employees.

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https://www.arkleg.state.ar.us/Bills/Detail?id=hb1055&ddBienniumSession=2025%2F2025R