Also, UVM students raise $100K; SBA honors local innovators

A new national analysis by Motive Medical Intelligence finds major gaps in dementia care, with up to 80% of U.S. clinicians in some states failing to perform recommended annual cognitive assessments. Vermont ranks among the poorer performers, with about 65% of clinicians not routinely screening dementia patients—well above best-practice standards promoted by the American Psychiatric Association and Alzheimer’s Association.

The study—based on more than 100 million closed U.S. insurance claims—highlights wide state-by-state variation and suggests missed opportunities to track disease progression, adjust treatment, and support patients and families. With more than 6 million Americans currently living with dementia—a number projected to reach nearly 14 million by 2060—the report warns that inconsistent monitoring could worsen outcomes and drive up already steep costs, which are expected to climb into the trillions nationwide.

Meanwhile in Burlington, students at the University of Vermont raised $101,383 during this year’s RALLYTHON dance marathon, benefiting Golisano Children’s Hospital. The annual event has now generated more than $1.1 million for pediatric care programs and services.

In business news, the U.S. Small Business Administration named Diane Abruzzini and Colin Riggs of Rigorous Technology Inc. in Williston as Vermont’s Small Business Persons of the Year. Other Vermont honorees include Lindsay DesLauriers, Jennifer Mayhew, Joy VerPlanck, Matthew Renna, Debra Townsend, Hannah Townsend Allain, and Benjamin Clark, who will be recognized at state and national events this spring.