In my work with individuals, caregivers and families struggling with all the different faces of dementia, a good diagnosis about the illness can alleviate much emotional pain and suffering. A good diagnosis leads to the opportunity for education about the illness to help navigate the difficult journey through dementia.
The Health Outcomes, Planning, and Education (HOPE) for Alzheimer’s Act of 2015 is a bill to provide better care coordination planning after a Medicare beneficiary receives a diagnosis. All too often we hear that after all the testing and diagnosis are done, the physician gives the patient and family no guidance for what is next. One reason is that physicians are not properly reimbursed for taking the time to sit down with the patient and family to help them navigate the process. The HOPE for Alzheimer’s Act bill will help set up a stronger system of diagnosis and treatment.
I am grateful that our Congresswoman, Jaime Herrera Beutler, R-Camas, has co-sponsored a bill that will help individuals, caregivers and their families. Herrera Beutler recognizes this is a problem and that Congress needs to respond.
Judith A. Canter
Vancouver
