Alaska § 18.09.300 - Dementia awareness and dementia care capacity.

§ 18.09.300. Dementia awareness and dementia care capacity.

 (a) The department shall develop and implement an evidence-based, data-informed statewide dementia awareness campaign. The statewide dementia awareness campaign must include promotion of screening, early diagnosis, and treatment of dementia and assess appropriate levels of care and workforce capacity necessary for the population of persons affected by dementia in the state.

 (b) To build statewide dementia awareness and health care capacity, the department shall        (1) use a public health approach to improve services and awareness of dementia and educate the public on strategies related to risk reduction, early diagnosis, and disease management;

 (2) collect and monitor data to set priorities, develop public health actions, and address social effects of Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia;

 (3) focus on changing systems, environments, and policies to promote risk reduction, improve early diagnosis, prevent and manage comorbidities, and avoid hospitalizations;

 (4) work with systems of care to identify ways to improve early diagnosis, primary care, care coordination, and development of the workforce for delivery of services to persons affected by dementia;

 (5) engage community members and stakeholders in decision making; and

 (6) develop a statewide strategic plan to improve systems of care infrastructure and awareness of dementia.

 (c) Beginning January 1, 2024, the department shall submit a biannual report to the senate secretary and chief clerk of the house of representatives and notify the legislature that the report is available. The report must include a description of accomplishments, barriers, and recommendations for priorities related to dementia care in the state.

Article 4. General Provisions.