Alzheimer’s law in Massachusetts sets a new standard for training, treatment

Healthcare professionals in Massachusetts will now have to undergo training in the diagnosis, treatment and care of patients with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia before they can obtain or renew licenses thanks to a new law. 

The new requirements, which were signed into law last week by Governor Charlie Baker, set a new standard for healthcare professionals, as no other state has a similar measure, the Boston Globe reported.

The law also mandates that hospitals develop and implement plans for recognizing and managing patients with dementia by October 2021.

Supporters of the requirements say the law will help healthcare providers care for families and patients who may not even know a patient has Alzheimer’s or other dementias and make better medical decisions.

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Amy Baxter

Amy joined TriMed Media as a Senior Writer for HealthExec after covering home care for three years. When not writing about all things healthcare, she fulfills her lifelong dream of becoming a pirate by sailing in regattas and enjoying rum. Fun fact: she sailed 333 miles across Lake Michigan in the Chicago Yacht Club "Race to Mackinac."

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