RÉSUMÉ DIGEST
ACT 73 (HB 397) 2021 Regular Session White
New law provides that it is in the public interest that information be provided to better
understand Alzheimer's disease and other dementia diseases to increase awareness.
New law states that it is public policy of the state that the Louisiana Department of Health
(LDH) provide consistent guidance and effective education programs to healthcare providers
statewide.
New law provides that LDH may educate healthcare providers on the following:
(1) The importance of effective care planning, including treatment options, support and
services, long-term care options, advanced directives, and care at every stage of
Alzheimer's disease and other dementia diseases to include appropriate counseling.
(2) The use of validated cognitive assessment tools.
New law states that the LDH office of public health may provide information that does all
of the following:
(1) Increases awareness of Alzheimer's disease and other dementia diseases including
any link to chronic diseases, such as vascular risk factors.
(2) Advises the public of the value of early detection of Alzheimer's disease and other
dementia diseases along with information on the early signs of such diseases.
(3) Educates the public on the importance of identifying and reporting signs of
Alzheimer's disease and other dementia diseases to healthcare providers for timely
diagnosis.
(4) Increases data and surveillance applicable to Alzheimer's disease and other dementia
diseases and encourages additional data analysis and accurate reporting on death
certificates.
New law authorizes LDH to promulgate rules and regulations in accordance with existing
law to comply with the provisions of new law. Further provides that LDH shall consult with
and seek input from the Louisiana chapter of the Alzheimer's Association, along with other
experts, advocates, or associations, when promulgating such rules and regulations.
Effective August 1, 2021.
(Adds R.S. 40:2200.7.1 and 2200.7.2)