Bill > HB446

This bill establishes the Dementia Services and Brain Health Program within the Maryland Department of Health to lead the state's public health efforts concerning brain health and dementia, and it expands the duties of the Virginia I. Jones Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias Council. The Council will now examine the readiness and capacity of healthcare providers to care for individuals with or at risk for Alzheimer's disease and related dementias, and identify ways the state can assist these providers in delivering care effectively. The bill also mandates the creation and maintenance of a "Provider Resource Toolkit" for dementia care by October 1, 2027, which will offer health care providers a centralized, up-to-date resource to support them in caring for patients at risk for or with dementia, including information on risk factors, reduction strategies, early detection, assessment tools, disparities, person-centered care, care planning, and continuing education opportunities. This toolkit will be reviewed and updated annually. The bill also outlines funding appropriations for the Director of Dementia Services and Brain Health and the Council, with specific amounts allocated for fiscal years 2023 through 2027 and beyond.