Bill > SB555

This bill establishes the Dementia Services and Brain Health Program within the Maryland Department of Health to lead the state's public health initiatives concerning brain health and dementia, and it alters the duties of the Virginia I. Jones Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias Council. A key provision requires the Maryland Department of Health, in partnership with the Department of Aging, the Council, and other relevant organizations, to develop and maintain a "Provider Resource Toolkit for Dementia Care" by October 1, 2027. This toolkit will serve as a centralized, up-to-date resource for healthcare providers, offering information on risk factors, reduction strategies, early detection, assessment tools, care delivery, and continuing education related to dementia. The bill also mandates that the Department promote the use of this toolkit across various healthcare sectors and annually review and update its content.