SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — A new state law signed by Governor J.B. Pritzker has made Illinois the first in the nation to require all state health insurance plans to cover FDA-approved medications for treating Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. The law takes effect in July 2025 and represents a landmark shift in how families in Illinois access treatment and testing for neurodegenerative conditions.
New Law Covers FDA-Approved Alzheimer’s Medications
The legislation ensures coverage of medications such as Lecanemab and Donanemab, which have received U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for slowing Alzheimer’s progression. Coverage will also include diagnostic testing when requested by a physician, ensuring that patients are properly diagnosed before beginning treatment.
Importantly, the law eliminates “step therapy” requirements — a cost-saving mechanism insurers use to force patients to try cheaper drugs before accessing their prescribed treatment. Alzheimer’s advocates say this outdated process delays crucial care.
Strong Support from Lawmakers and Advocates
The bill’s House sponsor, Rep. Mary Gill (D-Chicago), praised the bipartisan backing of the law and its timely approach to patient care.
“When it comes to slowing Alzheimer’s and other dementias, every moment counts,” Gill said. “We can’t waste time on insurance gimmicks like step therapy to save a few bucks.”
The Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter, which championed the bill, called it “groundbreaking.”
David Olson, the group’s Director of State Affairs, noted:
“Slowing the progression of the disease changes someone’s life — not only that individual’s life, but the lives of their caregivers, family, and friends.”
Impact on Illinois Families and Future Insurance Plans
In 2020, there were an estimated 230,000 seniors in Illinois living with Alzheimer’s or related dementias. That number is expected to grow to 260,000 by the end of 2025, according to the Illinois Department of Public Health. The law’s sponsors emphasized that broader access to medication could significantly improve patient outcomes while easing long-term burdens on families.
The new law applies immediately to state health plans, while private insurance providers will be required to follow suit beginning in 2027.
According to Olson, the Alzheimer’s Association worked closely with the insurance industry to craft language that expands access without raising consumer costs.
Alzheimer’s Treatment Landscape Still Developing
While the new law is a major win for advocates, experts caution that available treatments — like Lecanemab and Donanemab — slow disease progression but do not cure it. Continued investment in research and public health awareness is still vital.
Alzheimer’s remains one of the most costly and devastating illnesses affecting seniors, with wide-reaching impacts on caregivers, communities, and the state’s healthcare system.
How will this new law impact your family or community? Should more states follow Illinois’ lead on Alzheimer’s coverage? Share your thoughts at ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com.
