Voter Preferences on Alzheimer’s Diagnosis and Treatment

A significant number of voters, particularly in crucial swing states, expressed a desire for candidates who advocate for improving access to early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease. They want to see barriers removed—specifically those related to insurance coverage that limit access to necessary diagnostic tools and treatments.

Charles Sauer, founder and president of the Market Institute, commented, “Voters are fed up with governmental delays and insurance companies complicating access to FDA-approved tools for early Alzheimer’s detection, especially when it’s most treatable. Candidates can really position themselves well this November by addressing Alzheimer’s coverage restrictions, empowering healthcare providers and patients in their testing and treatment choices, and backing reforms that give patients more autonomy.”

A survey conducted by Fabrizio Ward, known for his polling work with President Trump, revealed several key findings:

• About 79% of registered voters are more inclined to support candidates focused on enhancing access to early detection, diagnosis, and treatment for Alzheimer’s, with 78% of independents in agreement.
• 87% of respondents, including 82% of independents, believe that addressing Alzheimer’s disease should be a national priority.
• 89% reported that limitations or delays in coverage from Medicare and private insurers hinder patients from receiving FDA-approved treatments.
• It’s essential that doctors, rather than insurance companies or Medicare, determine which Alzheimer’s tests and treatments are appropriate for patients.
• Early detection and treatment not only benefit millions but also save taxpayers and insurance companies a substantial amount of money.

Moreover, 92% of voters support the Alzheimer’s Disease Screening and Prevention Act, which would allow Medicare to cover future FDA-approved blood tests for Alzheimer’s. This sentiment is particularly strong in four pivotal states: Florida, North Carolina, Ohio, and Pennsylvania.

Candidates who endorse these changes could potentially secure votes by a margin of 72 points, achieving a 79 to 7 percent support rate.

One Republican voter named Dennis noted, “If someone actually mentioned Alzheimer’s in their campaign, that would definitely stand out.” He pointed out that as midterm elections draw near, focusing on Alzheimer’s access could provide Republicans with a significant healthcare win, appealing to both their base and undecided voters.

The memo emphasized that voters are deeply troubled by regulations from insurance companies and Medicare that delay access to FDA-approved tests and treatments, often placing blame squarely on the profit motives of these companies. The widespread support for the ASAP Act reflects this concern. For candidates, framing Alzheimer’s care as a priority offers a compelling way to demonstrate their commitment to seniors and families.

A survey of 1,000 voters nationwide, along with 500 voters from the crucial states of Florida, North Carolina, Ohio, and Pennsylvania, was conducted by Fabrizio Ward. The national poll carries a margin of error of 3.1 percentage points, while the regional poll stands at 4.4 percentage points. The Market Institute is a nonprofit that promotes free market policies.