Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker has enacted the Healthcare Protection Act to prevent insurance companies from using unfair tactics like step therapy and inadequate coverage, aiming to improve access to timely and necessary healthcare across the state.
Illinois’ Healthcare Protection Act Targets Unfair Insurance Practices and Improves Access to Care
According to the Audacy, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker has signed the Healthcare Protection Act into law, aiming to stop what he calls unfair practices by insurance companies. This law, a major focus of his legislative agenda, takes action against practices like step therapy, which makes patients try cheaper treatments first, even if their doctors recommend something else. Starting January 1, 2025, it also ends requirements for pre-approval during mental health emergencies, ensuring quicker access to necessary care.
The focus of Governor J.B. Pritzker’s new law is to crack down on “junk insurance” plans that don’t provide enough coverage and lack important protections for people. He wants all insurance plans to meet the standards set by the federal Affordable Care Act. According to Governor Pritzker, these changes are meant to give patients and doctors more say in healthcare choices, aiming to make Illinois’ healthcare system better and fairer for everyone.
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Illinois’ New Healthcare Protection Act Gains Strong Support from Advocates and Professionals
Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker signed the Healthcare Protection Act into law, aimed at stopping unfair insurance practices. The law targets step therapy, mental health pre-authorizations, and “junk insurance,” ensuring all plans meet federal standards. It takes effect January 1, 2025, to improve healthcare access statewide.