This bill aims to establish coverage for the diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer's disease and other dementia-related diseases under the State and Public School Life and Health Insurance Program in Arkansas. It introduces a new section, 21-5-425, which outlines the legislative findings regarding the prevalence and impact of Alzheimer's disease in the state, emphasizing the importance of timely diagnosis and treatment. The bill states that health benefit plans for state and public school employees, effective January 1, 2026, must provide coverage for these services as determined by a licensed physician.

The coverage mandated by the bill includes FDA-approved treatments and medications aimed at slowing the progression of Alzheimer's disease, as well as necessary diagnostic testing. Additionally, the bill specifies that the coverage will not be subject to step therapy protocols, ensuring that patients can access the prescribed treatments without unnecessary barriers. The State Board of Finance is authorized to create rules to facilitate the implementation of this new coverage requirement.