Enhancing Affordable Healthcare Access – Shaw Local Collaboration

TL/DR –

Laura Minzer, the president of the Illinois Life & Health Insurance Council, has voiced concerns about a pending bill in the Illinois General Assembly that targets the accessibility and affordability of health care. Minzer emphasized her commitment to working with the governor and the General Assembly to avoid negative outcomes from the legislation, such as high costs and reduced access to medical care. The Council, members of the Assembly, the Department of Insurance, and the governor’s office are working together to refine the proposed bill, ensuring that it truly improves the accessibility and affordability of health care in Illinois.

Pending Illinois Healthcare Legislation Discussed by Health Council President

The Illinois General Assembly is deliberating on legislation aimed at improving healthcare accessibility and affordability. As head of the Illinois Life & Health Insurance Council, my top priority is to ensure affordable, quality health care for Illinois residents.

Testimony on House Bill 5395

On March 13, I voiced my concerns to the Illinois House Human Services Committee regarding House Bill 5395. Although the bill may unintentionally burden patients with high costs and limited medical care access, I assured our commitment to work closely with Governor JB Pritzker and the General Assembly, to prevent such negative outcomes and promote accessible, quality healthcare.

Progressing Collaborative Efforts

Since the hearing, our efforts to collaborate have shown promising results. The continuing dialogue between parties, including the Illinois Life & Health Insurance Council, the Governor’s office, and key legislators, have expedited the legislation’s refinement progress. Even though there remain areas of disagreement, our united commitment to enhance healthcare for all Illinois residents is an encouraging prospect.

Role of Insurance Companies in Healthcare

My career in healthcare policy advocacy spans 25 years, with the last five at the council. I’m proud to represent an industry that is integral in providing financial protection products, like life, retirement, and health insurance, and contributing to the affordability of healthcare. Indeed, the crucial role of insurance companies in healthcare cannot be overstated.

Given this immense responsibility, the Illinois Life & Health Insurance Council has for years been actively collaborating with the Illinois General Assembly, the Illinois Department of Insurance, and the Governor’s office to further improve healthcare. We are committed to refining House Bill 5395 to truly enhance the accessibility and affordability of healthcare in Illinois.

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