Letter to the editor: Protecting access to Alzheimer's treatments

As the saying goes, “You can’t choose your family.” The same can be said for not being able to choose which chronic disease will impact you and your loved ones.

Millions of families across the United States have loved ones who are diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and have quickly seen the toll this disease takes on performing daily habits and activities — things we often take for granted.

Luckily, through the dedicated work of researchers and scientists, significant advancements have been made in the last two years, with the FDA approving two Alzheimer’s treatments that slow down the progression of this debilitating disease.

While research and innovation continue to remain at the forefront, the FDA recently announced there may be a significant delay with access to a third innovative new drug to help patients living with mild Alzheimer’s.

Despite this delay, we must continue to make sure barriers standing in the way of patients accessing lifesaving treatments are addressed, such as coverage restrictions and patient-registry requirements imposed by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.

Patients and their families are counting on these new innovative treatments. CMS can help by removing the coverage with evidence development requirements and ensuring Medicare beneficiaries can access these therapies.

Ruth Merchant

Imperial