Senator Kaine: A Champion for Healthcare Workers and Patients with the Dr. Lorna Breen Act and the Bold Alzheimer’s Initiative.

Senator Kaine is leading efforts on two important health-focused bills recently passed by the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions committee. The first bill is the Dr. Lorna Breen Health Care Provider Protection Act, named after a Charlottesville doctor. This act aims to reduce and prevent suicide, burnout, and mental and behavioral health issues among healthcare professionals.

The second bill is the Bold Act, which allocates funding for public health initiatives aimed at combating Alzheimer’s disease. Senator Kaine highlighted the importance of equipping health departments at all levels – state, county, and city – to effectively manage the challenges posed by Alzheimer’s. This includes improving access to information, supporting research, and providing aid to caregivers.

If passed, the reauthorization under the Bold Act will provide $33 million annually over the next five years to support partners like the Virginia Health Department. This funding, overseen by the CDC, is crucial in addressing the growing challenges posed by Alzheimer’s disease. Senator Kaine is dedicated to ensuring that these bills make a positive impact on the healthcare system and the wellbeing of healthcare professionals and patients alike.