New Jersey 2026-2027 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill S2871

Introduced
1/13/26  

Caption

Requires health insurance coverage of screening for Alzheimer's disease and related disorders for certain covered persons.

Impact

The implementation of S2871 could significantly enhance preventive care strategies for older adults, especially as the prevalence of Alzheimer's disease continues to rise among the aging population. By making screening for Alzheimer's part of standard health benefits, the bill strives to facilitate early diagnosis and therapeutic interventions, which can improve quality of life for patients and their families. Additionally, this step aligns with broader public health goals of addressing mental health issues and supporting caregivers who are often strained by the demands of elder care.

Summary

Senate Bill S2871 is a health insurance bill that requires insurance carriers operating in New Jersey to provide coverage for the screening of Alzheimer's disease and related disorders for individuals aged 65 and older. The bill aims to ensure that those who are at risk for Alzheimer's disease can receive timely screenings as part of their health insurance benefits. Specifically, the bill mandates that health maintenance organizations, hospital service corporations, and medical services corporations include this coverage in their plans for eligible enrollees.

Contention

While the bill is primarily aimed at expanding healthcare access, it may not be without contention. Potential discussions could center around the costs associated with mandated coverage and how it affects insurance premiums for all enrollees. Some may argue that expanded coverage could lead to higher costs overall, while supporters would counter that early detection and treatment could mitigate more serious and costly health complications later on. Additionally, the bill could trigger debates regarding the adequacy of existing healthcare provisions for the elderly and how they measure up against newer demands of healthcare like Alzheimer’s.

Companion Bills

NJ A5341

Carry Over Requires health insurance coverage of screening for Alzheimer's disease and related disorders for certain covered persons.

NJ S4323

Carry Over Requires health insurance coverage of screening for Alzheimer's disease and related disorders for certain covered persons.

NJ A2116

Same As Requires health insurance coverage of screening for Alzheimer's disease and related disorders for certain covered persons.

Similar Bills

NJ S1243

Establishes "New Jersey Alzheimer's Disease Master Plan Study Commission."

NJ A1557

Establishes "New Jersey Alzheimer's Disease Master Plan Study Commission."

NJ S1250

Requires DHS to establish Alzheimer's disease public awareness campaign.

HI SR163

Requesting The University Of Hawaii To Explore The Feasibility Of Establishing An Alzheimer's Disease Research Center And Identify The Requirements For Receiving Federal Funding From The National Institute On Aging For Alzheimer's Disease Research.

HI SCR203

Requesting The University Of Hawaii To Explore The Feasibility Of Establishing An Alzheimer's Disease Research Center And Identify The Requirements For Receiving Federal Funding From The National Institute On Aging For Alzheimer's Disease Research.

HI HR30

Requesting The University Of Hawaii To Explore The Feasibility Of Establishing An Alzheimer's Disease Research Center And Identify The Requirements For Receiving Federal Funding From The National Institute On Aging For Alzheimer's Disease Research.

HI HCR31

Requesting The University Of Hawaii To Explore The Feasibility Of Establishing An Alzheimer's Disease Research Center And Identify The Requirements For Receiving Federal Funding From The National Institute On Aging For Alzheimer's Disease Research.

NJ A4340

Imposes minimum staffing requirements and certain reporting requirements on certain long-term care facilities.