Plain Text Law

§ 13–32A-07

Statutes in effect as of October 1, 2026.

Md. Code Ann., Health-Gen. § 13-32A-07 (2026)
Title 13. Miscellaneous Health Care Programs
Subtitle 32A. Director of Dementia Services and Brain Health

§ 13–32A-07Copy Citation

(a)
In this section, “toolkit” means the provider resource toolkit for dementia care for health care providers developed under subsection (b) of this section.
(b)
On or before October 1, 2027, the Department, in partnership with the Department of Aging, the Council, and other public or private organizations with expertise in Alzheimer’s disease or related dementias shall establish and maintain a provider resource toolkit for dementia care for health care providers.
(c)
The purpose of the toolkit is to provide a centralized, up–to–date resource to support health care providers in caring for patients who are at risk for or who may have dementia.
(d)
The toolkit developed under subsection (b) of this section shall:
(1)
Be composed of materials that can be developed using existing resources and expertise within the Department or obtained through partnerships with public or private entities as determined necessary by the Department; and
(2)
Include information on:
(i)
Risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, including chronic diseases and the co–occurrence of Down syndrome (Trisomy–21);
(ii)
Risk reduction strategies, including information on lifestyle interventions to reduce dementia risk;
(iii)
The importance of early detection and diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias;
(iv)
Validated assessment tools for the detection and diagnosis of cognitive impairment;
(v)
The racial and ethnic disparities in detecting, diagnosing, and accessing treatment and services;
(vi)
Person–centered care delivery and relevant sources of clinical practice guidelines and tools;
(vii)
Effective care planning tools, including:
(1)
Available reimbursement tools, including relevant billing codes, for individuals with cognitive impairment;
(2)
Referral pathways to community–based services and care planning resources; and
(3)
Information on treatment options and relevant sources for guidelines; and
(viii)
Continuing education opportunities related to dementia care best practices.
(e)
The Department shall promote the use of the toolkit across health care sectors, including:
(1)
Managed care programs;
(2)
Academic research institutions;
(3)
Hospitals and health systems;
(4)
Federally qualified health centers;
(5)
Hospital and health system associations;
(6)
Physician and medical student organizations;
(7)
Organizations representing the advancement of nurses, health care professionals, and health care organizations; and
(8)
Any other public or private organization, entity, or part of an organization or entity the Department deems necessary.
(f)
On or before January 1 each year, beginning in 2028, the Department shall review and update the information in the toolkit to reflect the most recent and accurate available information.