Gov. Wolf Signs Alzheimer's Bill Into Law

PENNSYLVANIA — Gov. Tom Wolf signed a new bill into law on Wednesday that advocates hope will help with early detection of Alzheimer's disease and dementia. Roughly half of all cases in the state have not been diagnosed, officials estimate, numbers which are even higher in disadvantaged areas and in communities of color.

House Bill 1082 requires the Department of Health to build a toolkit and education program for primary care providers that provides details on diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of the disease. The bill also requires public outreach programs on Alzheimer's, including incorporation of the disease into existing campaigns.

"Far too many Pennsylvanians live with undiagnosed Alzheimer’s disease or dementia,” Gov. Wolf said in a statement. “This is a tragedy, especially because we know that early diagnosis can improve care, help maintain a person’s quality of life, and reduce the financial impact of the disease."

The bill was brought forth by State Rep. Carrie Lewis DelRosso, a Republican from Allegheny County. She pointed to "lack of diagnostic training, time constraints and lack of support, communication difficulties and fear of causing distress, lack of disease modifying treatment, stigma, and a health care specialist shortage" as factors that prevent diagnosis and early detection and which the new toolkit aims to address.

Officials noted that Pennsylvania boasts one of the largest aging populations in the nation, and more resources are needed to help family members both identify signs and treat symptoms.

“When it comes to cognitive health, early detection and diagnosis is paramount–and early intervention is key to obtaining proper care, and planning for the future,” added Jennifer Ebersole, Director of State Government Affairs for the Alzheimer’s Association.

Some 280,000 Pennsylvanians have Alzheimer's, and roughly half a million caregivers around the state provide unpaid assistance, legislators say.