Editor’s note: The following is a letter to the editor. The opinions expressed in this letter are those of the writer, and do not necessarily reflect those of The Mendocino Voice. If you would like to submit a letter to the editor feel free to write to info@mendovoice.com.
Dear Editor:
I am writing to urge State Senator Mike McGuire and Assemblymember Chris Rogers to support and co-sign the Budget Request for a one-time General Fund allocation of $5.4 million to fund Dementia Care Aware (DCA). I respectfully request that this critical investment be made available over three years, with oversight transitioned to the California Department of Public Health.
Before DCA, nearly one in four primary care physicians reported no training in dementia diagnosis, and two out of three described their training as “very little.” DCA’s training courses and resources build the knowledge and skills clinicians need to detect dementia early, conduct accurate diagnostic evaluations, implement brain health plans and provide timely care and support.
DCA has partnered with the public health department’s Alzheimer’s Disease Program and Dementia Care California, creating a robust resource for clinicians to learn best practices in case management and care navigation using state-specific resources.
Improved care management translates to fewer emergency department visits, fewer outpatient and acute care events, and overall cost savings — a clear return on investment. DCA is a proven program that would be jeopardized without funding, halting momentum toward a dementia-capable workforce and risking the loss of diverse training programs refined by experienced professionals.
Funding would support DCA expenditures on salaries, travel, materials and supplies, website maintenance, and consultant contracts for program operations.
Expand DCC offerings to reach more clinicians and care teams across the state.
Ensure ongoing oversight by Public Health, maintaining program quality and accountability.
Continue the momentum: to date, DCA has trained more than 7,250 professionals, predominantly clinicians, with the potential to help many more as the population ages.
DCA builds dementia capability across California’s health care workforce, reaching both clinicians and non-clinical providers through a blend of in-person and remote training. The program reaches underserved and rural communities, including Mendocino and Humboldt counties, ensuring more equitable access to dementia care training.
I strongly urge Senator McGuire and Assemblymember Rogers to co- sign and champion this budget item, recognizing that investing in DCA now is an investment in better care and lower costs for our state.
Elizabeth Santos, Alzheimer’s Association Northern California Chapter, Ukiah