SPRINGFIELD – Simmons advanced legislation through the Senate, which will create a Health Outcomes Review Board to identify and tackle healthcare disparities.

“The findings of the Health Outcomes Review Board will be vital in developing and targeting policy solutions that can improve health outcomes, improve the quality of life for many, reduce health care costs and save lives,” said Simmons (D-Chicago). “Whether it’s the unacceptable life expectancy gap for African-American and Latine communities, disparities in quality of health insurance coverage for low-income households, or inadequate access to follow up and specialty care for LGBTQ+ communities, the board will help identify those gaps and recommend improvements.”

Simmons’ legislation, Senate Bill 3751, will create the Health Outcomes Review Board, overseen by the Illinois Department of Public Health, which will focus on collecting and analyzing de-identified health data, particularly emphasizing demographic factors such as race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, and languages spoken.

By identifying disparities in patient health outcomes, the board aims to develop policy solutions and recommendations to reduce these disparities. The findings and recommendations will be shared with state agencies, healthcare providers, lawmakers and other relevant stakeholders.

“The collection, analysis, and reporting of health data disparities is essential for achieving health equity,” said Simmons. “This review board has the ability to drive evidence-based interventions that will help us serve our communities that have been overlooked by our health care systems.”

Senate Bill 3751 passed the Senate on Thursday and now heads to the House for further consideration.