Alzheimer’s Disease Medicaire Coverage

Alzheimer’s Disease Medicare Coverage

With 2 FDA-approved treatments and more promising drugs in the pipeline, now is the time to keep the spotlight on Alzheimer’s. That is why Hoosier advocates are joining others from across the country in Washington DC to urge Congress to join our fight.

While I am not able to be on Capitol Hill, I am writing to share my personal story and amplify the message of my fellow advocates. My father died of complications from Alzheimer’s disease 40 years ago. There was little in the way of treatment and my mother struggled as his caregiver until he was placed in an “inexpensive” nursing home where he received sedatives, companionship from other patients, and, routine visits from family.

From Washington D.C. to at home in my district, I want to make sure our legislators hear our critical requests. At a time when we should be rejoicing over new and promising treatments for Alzheimer’s, I am instead disheartened that Medicare is blocking patient access. A recent Centers for Medicare &Medicaid Services (CMS) policy - that only applies to those with Alzheimer’s disease - denies coverage for these drugs. I’m calling on Representative Carson to individually contact the CMS requesting they change their policy on FDA-approved treatments for Alzheimer’s in support of the millions of families affected by this devastating disease.

Over 6 million Americans, including 110,000 Hoosiers, are living with Alzheimer’s. This number will only continue to rise, highlighting the critical importance of access to treatment for those in the early stages of the disease.

Representative Carson, please don’t allow your constituents with Alzheimer’s to be treated like this. All those living with Alzheimer’s deserve better and need your support.

Don Mink, Volunteer Advocate