Us Congress House Bill HR367

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/5/23
• Refer: 5/5/23
• Refer: 5/12/23

Caption

Designating the week of May 1, 2023, through May 7, 2023, as "Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week".

Impact

The resolution reflects a growing recognition of tardive dyskinesia as a public health concern, particularly in the context of long-term treatment for patients with mental health disorders. With over 600,000 individuals estimated to be suffering from this condition in the U.S., the bill stresses the need for better screening and recognition of tardive dyskinesia among healthcare providers. By promoting awareness, it aims to improve diagnosis rates and ensure that caregivers, as well as patients, are better informed about the potential risks associated with antipsychotic treatments.

Summary

HR367 is a resolution that designates the week of May 1, 2023, through May 7, 2023, as 'Tardive Dyskinesia Awareness Week'. The bill aims to increase public and medical community awareness of tardive dyskinesia, a serious and often overlooked movement disorder that can arise from the use of dopamine receptor blocking agents (DRBAs) such as antipsychotic medications. Through this designation, the resolution encourages individuals to educate themselves about the condition and its risks. It highlights the significance of understanding both the benefits and potential adverse effects of these widely used medications in treating mental illnesses and gastrointestinal disorders.

Contention

While the bill itself is a resolution and not a legislative measure imposing new regulations, it emphasizes the importance of addressing health issues arising from existing medical practices. Notably, there may be concerns about the adequacy of medical education on tardive dyskinesia, leading to instances of misdiagnosis. Opponents could argue that while awareness is beneficial, there needs to be a concerted effort to develop effective treatment options and support systems for those already affected by this condition. As resolution HR367 encourages public discussion and acknowledgment of the disorder, its real impact may depend on the resources allocated for awareness campaigns and further research.