Drivers can share medical details with responders using yellow dots

The bureau administers a voluntary program that lets drivers and passengers share medical information with responders. Drivers and passengers participate by placing the yellow decal on their vehicle and keeping the completed form in the indicated compartment. Participants provide the information voluntarily and are responsible for it. The bureau may not charge a fee to participate. The chapter takes effect July 1, 2026.

The bureau administers a support program for eligible older adults who provide or receive care. People age 65 or older may qualify as an unpaid caretaker or as an adult with special needs receiving care. A caretaker must provide ongoing care without pay to an adult with special needs. Special needs include Alzheimer’s disease or a related disorder, difficulty doing at least two daily activities, or another condition added by bureau rule. Program services depend on money appropriated by the General Assembly. The chapter takes effect July 1, 2026.

The bureau develops a statewide dementia plan and reports each year to the General Assembly. The plan addresses dementia in Indiana and the needs of people with dementia, their families, and caregivers. The plan assesses dementia trends and care, and sets out strategies for public awareness, the care workforce, services, care quality, health disparities, and research. The bureau may employ a coordinator to help carry out the plan and support local dementia programs. The chapter takes effect July 1, 2026. The bureau must submit a plan summary and an outcome report annually.

A qualifying home health agency may keep serving Medicaid recipients and receive Medicaid payment while its Medicare enrollment is pending. This applies to home health agencies licensed under Indiana law that meet the stated Medicaid requirements. The agency must be licensed, enrolled in Medicaid, and in good standing as determined by the secretary’s office. The agency must have submitted a Medicare enrollment application or started enrollment through an approved accrediting organization before April 1, 2026. This provision takes effect upon passage. The agency must have started the Medicare enrollment process before April 1, 2026.

The bureau sets training standards and promotes best practices for continuum of care providers. The standards concern continuum of care providers and people who receive care through the continuum. Rules must protect the rights, safety, and welfare of people receiving care and address the needs of distinct populations. Rules may not impose costly or unduly burdensome requirements that block access to home and community services. The continuum of care must include services that support prevention and treatment of mental illness and addiction. The chapter takes effect July 1, 2026.