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WASHINGTON, DC—Congressman Paul D. Tonko heralded passage of his bipartisan bill, H.R. 1873, Improving HOPE for Alzheimer’s Act, out of the House and Senate last night as part of the must-pass federal funding package H.R. 133, expected to be signed into law quickly by the President. Tonko’s bill directs the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to notify healthcare providers about care planning benefits for Alzheimer’s and dementia patients available through Medicare, and identify any barriers individuals may face in accessing care planning.

“Receiving an Alzheimer’s diagnosis is one of the scariest moments a family can face, one that is all too familiar for millions of people across the nation,” Congressman Tonko said. “We can make a real difference in that moment by ensuring doctors and caregivers are ready to develop a plan with them that helps maintain lasting quality of life for their loved one and provides invaluable support to loved ones after a diagnosis. My Improving HOPE for Alzheimer’s Act helps ensure families get that chance to sit down with their health care provider, discuss treatment options and create a plan. I am gratified to have this compassionate legislation included in our federal spending package. Its advance into law will provide comfort and hope for many who face this diagnosis now and for years to come.”

Tonko championed the HOPE for Alzheimer’s Act in the 114th Congress, a law that improves Medicare coverage by creating a benefit for comprehensive care planning services following a dementia diagnosis. Unfortunately, many health care providers remain unaware that this benefit is available. As a result, many eligible Medicare beneficiaries are not receiving the assistance that a comprehensive care planning visit can provide. This legislation will increase access to this vital benefit by ensuring more providers are informed and ready to offer it.

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