Bill > HB1592

This bill establishes the Arkansas Alzheimer's and Dementia Public Health Act, which creates a comprehensive strategy to address Alzheimer's disease and related dementias as a public health issue. The legislation requires the Department of Human Services and the Department of Health to collaborate on implementing a state Alzheimer's plan, focusing on partnerships with healthcare providers and community organizations. Key provisions include developing public health outreach programs to educate healthcare providers about early detection, diagnosis, and care planning for cognitive impairment, and creating public awareness campaigns about dementia risk reduction and early warning signs. The bill mandates enhanced data collection and analysis, including the creation of an annual public Alzheimer's and Dementia Data Dashboard that tracks prevalence, demographics, healthcare utilization, and public health initiative outcomes. Additionally, the departments are directed to seek federal grants and partner with nonprofit organizations to support implementation, with the understanding that all requirements are subject to available funding. The bill acknowledges Alzheimer's as a growing public health crisis with significant social and economic impacts, and aims to improve outcomes by focusing on early intervention, risk factor management, and comprehensive public health strategies. Implementation of healthcare provider education and public awareness campaigns is set to begin no later than January 1, 2026.

Health and Social Services

https://arkleg.state.ar.us/Bills/Detail?id=hb1592&ddBienniumSession=2025%2F2025R