Illinois Enacts First-In-The-Nation Law to Expand Access to Alzheimer’s Treatments


Illinois Enacts First-In-The-Nation Law to Expand Access to Alzheimer’s Treatments

 

Last week, Governor JB Pritzker signed Senate Bill 126, making Illinois the first state in the nation to require insurance coverage of Alzheimer’s treatments to slow the progression of the disease.  The new law, sponsored by State Senator Laura Murphy and State Representative Mary Gill, received unanimous bipartisan votes in both the House and Senate, and was the first bill to be signed by Governor Pritzker this year.


"We are thrilled that Illinois policymakers continue to prioritize the fight to end Alzheimer’s," said Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter Executive Director Delia Jervier. "The ability to access treatment is life changing for individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease and their families."


Recently, the FDA approved the first-ever treatments to slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease - with several more promising drugs in the approval pipeline.  However, these treatments are only effective if administered in the early stages of the disease.  Senate Bill 126 ensures that all state-regulated health insurance plans provide coverage for these Alzheimer’s treatments when medically necessary, while prohibiting the use of step therapy which can unnecessarily delay treatment.  The bill also requires coverage of diagnostic imaging or tests needed to confirm a diagnosis.


“I particularly want to thank Governor Pritzker for signing this bill, and Senator Murphy and Representative Gill for their tireless leadership,” added Delia Jervier. “We are also incredibly grateful to Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton for making Alzheimer’s an ongoing priority and traveling to Washington, DC to lift up this groundbreaking bill at our national policy gathering with over 1,000 volunteers this past weekend.”


Contact: Lionell Martin, Public Relations Manager, Alzheimer’s Association, lrmartin@alz.org, 773.593. 4211


About the Alzheimer's Association Illinois Chapter:

The Alzheimer’s Association is the world’s leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s research, care and support.  Our mission is to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health.  Since 1980, the Chapter has provided reliable information and care consultation; created supportive services for families; increased funding for dementia research; and influenced public policy changes.


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