Full Senate approves bill improving coordination and access to Alzheimer’s services

OKLAHOMA CITY- The full Senate has given approval to a measure to make it easier for Oklahomans to access information and services for Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Senate Bill 1428, by Sen. Mark Mann, creates the Office of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementia Service Coordination in the State Department of Health.

“Forty-two percent of Americans over age 55 will eventually develop dementia, and those numbers are projected to rise in the coming decades. There are important advancements in early detection and medications that can slow dementia progression, but many Oklahomans may not know about them or how other services are available,” said Mann, D-Oklahoma City. “SB 1428 will help patients and caregivers more easily access information about tests for detection, medication, and support services.”

The Office of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementia Service Coordination 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 throughout the state; help identify grant opportunities to expand services; and support dementia-specific training across all relevant state agencies and organizations.

SB 1428 now moves to the House of Representatives for further consideration. Rep. Nicole Miller, R-Edmond is the principal author for the House.

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