SPRINGFIELD – Treatments for Alzheimer’s disease may become more accessible thanks to a new proposal from State Senator Laura Murphy.

“Early and consistent access to Alzheimer’s treatment can make a real difference for patients and their families,” said Murphy (D-Des Plaines). “No one should be denied care that could slow the disease’s progression.”

The measure would require group or individual health insurance plans to cover all medically necessary FDA-approved treatments or medications to slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. Many available treatments are only effective in the early stages of the disease.

It would also include coverage of all diagnostic testing for a physician to determine the appropriate use of treatments or medications.

“Everyone deserves to have access to the treatment that they need, especially when it comes to Alzheimer’s,” Murphy said. “Timely treatments may slow the progression of the disease and improve quality of life, which is why we need to remove roadblocks to prompt medical care.”

Senate Bill 126 passed the Senate Insurance Committee Tuesday.