Alzheimer’s treatment insurance coverage plan unanimously passes out of Illinois House
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — A plan heading to Gov. JB Pritzker’s desk would improve access to Alzheimer’s treatment in Illinois.
The bill requires the State Employees Group Insurance Program to cover medically necessary FDA-approved treatments or medications to slow progression of the disease.
Senate Bill 3318 would also require coverage for diagnostic testing from doctors to determine the best treatment or medication.
“As approximately 90% of individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer’s are 65 years or older, these individuals already have access to Alzheimer’s treatments through Medicare,” Rep. Mary Gill (D-Chicago) said Friday. “This bill ensures equity for state employees under 65 so that they are also able to access these life-changing treatments.”
The proposal passed unanimously out of the House Friday afternoon. It previously gained unanimous support in the Senate.
“Every moment counts for patients and their families facing this devastating disease,” said Sen. Laura Murphy (D-Des Plaines). “By removing barriers to treatment, we allow them to receive timely and effective care.”
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