Patient's Rising's Terry Wilcox: The gap between FDA approval and patient access for Alzheimer’s treatments

WASHINGTON — July 20, 2026 — Terry Wilcox, co-founder and CEO of Patients Rising, joined the Health Policy Podcast to discuss the challenges faced by patients in accessing newly approved Alzheimer's treatments. The conversation highlighted the disconnect between FDA approval and real-world patient access.

Wilcox emphasized that while new treatments for early-stage Alzheimer's disease have been developed, many patients struggle to obtain them due to bureaucratic hurdles. She explained the importance of advocacy in bridging the gap between policymakers and patients, particularly in the context of Alzheimer’s care.

This topic is crucial as millions of families are impacted by Alzheimer's disease. Understanding the barriers to accessing approved treatments can help patients and caregivers navigate the healthcare system more effectively.

“It's always a good question. I always think that innovation ... you should get it if it's FDA approved, which is we're told is the gold standard,” Wilcox said. “But that's not what happens. Especially with the Alzheimer's treatments, they've just fought an uphill battle at CMS.”

Wilcox also stated, “We have the capability to care for these people… but it's how to get them to all the people who need them.”

The discussion underscores the urgent need for policy reforms that ensure timely access to effective Alzheimer's treatments for patients and their families.