Gill Effort Expanding Access to Alzheimer’s Treatment Heads to Governor

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – A measure spearheaded by state Rep. Mary Gill, D-Chicago, now heading to the governor for final approval would require health insurance providers to cover medication that slows the progression of Alzheimer’s Disease and other related dementias.

“I’m proud to work with the Alzheimer’s Association, state Sen. Laura Murphy and advocates across our community who understand the crucial need to expand coverage,” Gill said. “For families, every moment matters when it comes to slowing Alzheimer’s. This is a critically-needed plan that is going to make Illinois a national leader when it comes to Alzheimer’s treatment and will help more people access the care they deserve.”

The Gill-led Senate Bill 126 would require health insurance providers cover medication that slows the progression of Alzheimer’s Disease and other related dementias. Such coverage includes all medically necessary diagnostic testing and medication approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Insurance providers would be prohibited from utilizing “step therapy,” a strategy that involves using different, less costly treatments requiring patients to “fail first” before receiving what was prescribed.

The measure’s requirements would apply to private health insurance plans regulated by the state, self- insuring counties, self-insuring municipalities, self-insuring school districts, Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs) and Limited Health Service Organizations. HMOs under contract with the Department of Healthcare and Family Services are exempt.

Senate Bill 126 passed the General Assembly with bipartisan support and will now go to the governor’s desk for signing.

For more information, please contact RepMaryGill@gmail.com.