Illinois lawmakers are considering legislation that aims to address mental health parity in the state.
There are both federal and state laws requiring insurance providers cover not only physical health issues - but also mental health. Illinois has strict laws, but some argue they’re not properly enforced ... and those with mental health or addiction issues don’t always understand what’s covered with insurance.
State Representative Lou Lang, a Democrat from Skokie, is sponsoring legislation that would require the Illinois Department of Insurance to effectively communicate policy coverage.
“When people have problems getting their claims paid or they have problems getting coverage by Medicaid, we know that they don’t know what to do. They don’t even know they have a claim they haven’t made. They don’t know who to turn to. And when they do turn to people that they think are appropriate, they sometimes get a deaf ear. ”
Opponents say the measure could result in patients being over-medicated.
