New Law Helps Address Lyme Disease in New York
Governor Andrew Cuomo has signed into law legislation that helps doctors better treat patients with symptoms of Lyme disease, according to New York State Senator Ken LaValle, the co-chair of the Task Force on Lyme and Tick-Borne Diseases.
The law is a result of task force findings and recommendations. The task force was created in October 2013 to examine state and federal efforts to combat the continued spread of tick-borne diseases.
“Some individuals infected with Lyme disease may benefit from alternative medical treatment that is not universally accepted by the medical community,” LaValle’s office stated. “Too often, doctors choose not to pursue the alternative treatment—even if they believe it is best for the patient—fearing an investigation or charges by [the Office of Professional Medical Conduct].”
The law ensures doctors can use innovative treatments without fear of investigation.
“It’s critically important that we take all actions necessary to fight the devastating diseases spread by ticks, and increase the ability of doctors to treat patients suffering from chronic Lyme Disease,” LaValle said.