The proposed bill, H.B. No. 2025-2026, aims to enhance education and awareness regarding cognitive impairment, Alzheimer's disease, and other forms of dementia in Ohio. It seeks to enact a new section, 3701.147, in the Revised Code, which mandates the Ohio Department of Health to collaborate with the Department of Aging, the Commission on Minority Health, and community organizations dedicated to dementia awareness. This collaboration will focus on integrating relevant information into public health outreach efforts.
The bill outlines specific topics that the educational materials should cover, including early warning signs of dementia, the importance of reducing risk factors, the significance of early detection and diagnosis, and the use of assessment tools for cognitive health. Additionally, it emphasizes the need for annual wellness visits for individuals aged 65 and older to monitor cognitive health, including the relevant Medicare billing codes for treatment related to cognitive impairment. This initiative aims to improve understanding and support for those affected by dementia across diverse communities.