Bill to improve coordination and access to Alzheimer’s services clears first committee

OKLAHOMA CITY – Senate Bill 1428, creating a new office in the State Department of Health to help Oklahomans more easily access information and services for Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, has been approved by the Senate Health and Human Services Committee. Sen. Mark Mann filed the legislation after conducting an interim study on Alzheimer’s last fall.

“There are important advancements in early detection, medications that can slow dementia progression, and other services that can help patients and caregivers, but knowing where to turn can be overwhelming,” said Mann, D-Oklahoma City. “Senate Bill 1428 will create the Office of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementia Service Coordination in the State Department of Health to help patients and caregivers find the information and help they need.”

The office will provide statewide coordination, service system development, and information on education, support, and other available services for those with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia and for caregivers. The dementia services coordinator will also recommend strategies to improve coordination of dementia-related services and resources; help identify grant opportunities to expand services; and support dementia-specific training across all relevant state agencies and organizations.

SB 1428 will now be eligible to be considered by the Senate Appropriations. After approval by that committee, the measure can be voted on by the full Senate.

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For more information, contact:  Sen. Mark Mann at 405-590-4471 or Mark.Mann@oksenate.gov