SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Omar Aquino led an initiative to increase government efficiency and transparency within the health care system by maximizing state dollars to fund the essential services vulnerable communities depend on.
“Access to health care and behavioral health services should not depend on your ZIP code,” said Aquino (D-Chicago). “This package will ensure that communities across the state, whether in the city, the suburbs or rural farm towns, have access to care.”
Senate Bill 3365 would create a Distressed Hospital Loan Program to program to provide interest-free cash flow loans to public and nonprofit hospitals in financial distress. The goal is to prevent hospital closures and maintain services while also instituting guardrails that will make sure distressed and safety net hospitals are on a path to financial sustainability.
The measure would also support maternal health by codifying health care coverage for tests detecting and managing preeclampsia and spontaneous preterm birth. Further, it aims to support older adults by providing additional senior living options with oversight for cottage-style nursing homes and expanding eligibility for Supportive Living Facility dementia units.
The measure recognizes the health care challenges created by the federal administration’s budget – H.R. 1 – and takes steps to build up the state’s social services safety net to protect hospitals, health systems, nursing home care, vulnerable populations and taxpayer dollars.
“Strengthening the viability of our health care system is essential for supporting patients in every stage of life,” said Aquino. “Focusing on people’s needs is how we ensure the highest quality of care and bolster the sustainability of the health care system now and into the future.”
Senate Bill 3365 passed the Senate on Sunday.
