Bill > HB116

This bill requires the Mississippi State Department of Health, in collaboration with the Division of Aging and Adult Services, to integrate Alzheimer's disease and dementia education into existing public health outreach programs. The bill aims to increase public understanding of brain health, dementia risk reduction, and early detection of Alzheimer's and related conditions. The public awareness programs must provide clear, non-clinical guidance and prioritize populations at higher risk of developing dementia. Additionally, the bill mandates that the State Department of Health educate healthcare providers about cognitive impairment, including the importance of early detection, validated assessment tools, and Medicare care planning for individuals with cognitive issues. The educational efforts will focus on helping providers understand the value of cognitive assessments during annual wellness visits and the available treatment options. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and builds upon the existing powers and duties of the State Department of Health by adding these specific educational requirements to its public health programming.

Health and Social Services

https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2025/pdf/history/HB/HB0116.xml