House Committee Unanimously Approves Balderson Health Bills

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the House Energy and Commerce Committee unanimously advanced two pieces of legislation led by Congressman Troy Balderson (OH-12) aimed at improving health care access, strengthening early intervention efforts, and expanding community-based care for young Ohioans. The committee approved the Accelerating Access to Dementia and Alzheimer’s Provider Training (AADAPT) Act ( H.R.3747 ) and the School-Based Health Centers Reauthorization Act ( H.R.8209 ) during a committee markup, advancing both bills for potential consideration by the full House. “Alzheimer’s disease and dementia continue to impact millions of families across the country, including more than 236,000 Ohioans,” said Balderson . “In many rural communities, primary care providers are on the front lines of dementia care but often lack consistent access to specialists and advanced training resources. The AADAPT Act helps address that challenge by giving providers the tools and clinical support they need to identify cognitive decline earlier, improve care coordination, and connect patients and families to treatment options sooner—regardless of where they live.” By delivering specialized training directly to frontline health care providers, the AADAPT Act ensures that individuals and families facing an Alzheimer’s diagnosis receive earlier support, more accurate information, and care that reflects their personal needs. The legislation helps close the diagnosis gap and reduce care disparities in rural communities. The School-Based Health Centers Reauthorization Act renews federal support for school-based health centers that provide students with access to primary care, mental health services, preventive screenings, and chronic disease management directly at school. School-based health centers reduce barriers to care, minimize missed classroom time, and keep students healthy and engaged in learning. The legislation reauthorizes continued federal support for these community-based services. “School-based health centers help students and families access care in a convenient, familiar, and trusted setting,” said Balderson . “In many rural and underserved communities, provider shortages and transportation barriers can make it difficult for families to access timely pediatric and behavioral health services. Reauthorizing this program expands access to preventive care, mental health support, and early intervention services so students can stay healthy and be better positioned to succeed both inside and outside the classroom.” ###