DOWNERS GROVE – To help communities get vaccinated, a measure sponsored by State Senator Ann Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights) to increase the Medicaid reimbursement rates for immunizations and expand coverage was signed into law today.

“As communities prepare for a safe reopening this summer, making sure everyone is vaccinated is critical,” Gillespie said. “This measure ensures that families who use Medicaid have the same access to vaccines.”

The new law increases the Medicaid reimbursement rates for immunizations for children under 21, as well as for dental services and mental health, marriage and family counseling.

The measure also adds chiropractic care, post-kidney transplant management, counseling on how to quit smoking and peer support services for veterans to the list of covered services under the Illinois Medicaid program. It also requires the Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) to deliver more social services to older residents.

“Expanding Medicaid coverage will improve health outcomes in communities where it is needed most,” Gillespie said. “By enhancing provider networks and making essential services more available, working families across the state can receive the care they need to keep themselves and their communities healthy.”

Senate Bill 2294 is effective immediately.