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Thanks to Rice for Alzheimer’s bill support

U.S. Rep. Tom Rice, who represents South Carolina's 7th Congressional District that includes Horry and Georgetown counties, was appointed last month to the House Committee on Ways and Means, the oldest committee in Congress, which oversees taxes, trade agreements and the nation’s bonded debt.
U.S. Rep. Tom Rice, who represents South Carolina's 7th Congressional District that includes Horry and Georgetown counties, was appointed last month to the House Committee on Ways and Means, the oldest committee in Congress, which oversees taxes, trade agreements and the nation’s bonded debt. Charles Slate MyrtleBeachOnline.com file photo

A great big thank you to the new champion for Alzheimer’s families in South Carolina, U.S. Rep. Tom Rice. Early in February, our very own Congressman Rice became the first member of the S.C. Congressional delegation to co-sponsor the HOPE for Alzheimer’s Act. This shows true understanding that Alzheimer’s is a reality for families, as well as a budget-breaker for state and federal governments.

The cost for care for Alzheimer’s patients is being shouldered by taxpayers in every Congressional district -- including you and me. That can only change by investing in Alzheimer’s research and helping affected families find vital resources as early as possible. Alzheimer’s is the most expensive disease in the United States, costing Medicaid and Medicare systems $153 billion in 2015.

Congressman Rice has led the way in our state, but now we need Sens. Tim Scott and Lindsey Graham to oin him in co-sponsoring the HOPE Act (S. 857/H.R. 1559). This landmark bill would provide Medicare coverage for care planning services following a dementia diagnosis. Care planning allows newly-diagnosed individuals and caregivers to learn about medical and non-medical treatments, counseling and support services through organizations like the Alzheimer’s Association, giving those facing this disease the best resources up front.

Please write your Senators and Congressmen and ask them to support S.857 and H.R. 1559.

Gerald Terwilliger, Myrtle Beach

This story was originally published February 29, 2016 at 8:27 AM with the headline "Thanks to Rice for Alzheimer’s bill support."

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