Washington, D.C. – Congressman LaHood (IL-16) joined Representatives Troy Balderson (OH-12), Nanette Barragán (CA-44), and Paul Tonko (NY-20) in reintroducing the Accelerating Access to Dementia and Alzheimer’s Provider Training (AADAPT) Act. This legislation would equip primary care providers with additional tools and training necessary to detect, diagnose, and treat Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.
“Alzheimer’s impacts countless families throughout America and Illinois’ 16th Congressional District,” said Rep. LaHood. “I am proud to join my colleagues in reintroducing the AADAPT Act to empower our local primary care providers with the specialized training they need to better treat, diagnose, and care for patients living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Congress must strengthen the quality of care to ease the burdens on families and give patients the support they deserve.”
Background:
Alzheimer’s disease impacts over seven million Americans. However, many primary care providers, especially those serving rural or underserved populations, report they lack the proper resources and additional training necessary to diagnose and treat Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Today, Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias are under-detected in the primary care setting about 50 percent of the time.
The AADAPT Act ensures that individuals and families facing an Alzheimer’s diagnosis receive earlier support, accurate information, and care that reflects their needs. This legislation is a critical step toward closing the diagnosis gap and reducing care disparities in rural communities.
Read the full text of the legislation HERE.
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