§22-13A-3. Purposes of chapter.

The purposes of this chapter are as follows:

(1) To create and foster a multi-generational, statewide program to promote public awareness and knowledge about the causes of osteoporosis, personal risk factors, the value of prevention and early detection, and the options available for treatment.

(2) To facilitate and enhance knowledge and understanding of osteoporosis by disseminating educational materials, information about research results, services, and strategies for prevention and treatment to patients, health professionals, and the public.

(3) To utilize educational and training resources and services that have been developed by organizations with appropriate expertise and knowledge of osteoporosis and to use available technical assistance.

(4) To evaluate existing osteoporosis services in the community and assess the need for improving the quality and accessibility of community-based services.

(5) To provide easy access to clear, complete, and accurate osteoporosis information and referral services.

(6) To educate and train service providers, health professionals, and physicians.

(7) To heighten awareness about the prevention, detection, and treatment of osteoporosis among state and local health and human service officials, health educators, and policy makers.

(8) To coordinate state programs and services to address the issue of osteoporosis.

(9) To promote the development of support groups for osteoporosis patients and their families and caregivers.

(10) To adequately fund these programs.

(11) To provide lasting improvements in the delivery of osteoporosis health care, thus providing patients with an improved quality of life and society with the containment of health care costs.

(Acts 1995, No. 95-259, p. 435, §3.)