SPRINGFIELD — As a longstanding advocate for mental health and substance use treatment, State Senator Mattie Hunter supported a measure aimed at increasing access to treatment for residents.  

“Access to mental health and substance abuse treatment for Illinoisans should not be delayed because of a lack of in-network providers through their insurance,” said Hunter (D-Chicago). “We need to prioritize the well-being of our communities, especially those who are paying hundreds of dollars in insurance premiums every month.”

House Bill 1085 would create a formula to calculate mental health and substance use reimbursement rates. The bill would then task the Illinois Department of Insurance with utilizing the formula to calculate rates and publish them in a bulletin for use by insurers. The measure would also require DOI to review the impact of the legislation on network adequacy and affordable access to care after two years, seven years and 12 years. 

Updating reimbursement rates would ensure more behavioral health providers join networks, ensuring individuals are able to access the care outlined within their benefits in a timely manner without having to go out-of-network.

“We must continue to take steps to protect our residents and hold insurers accountable for practices that prevent communities from accessing the care they need,” said Hunter.

House Bill 1085 passed the Senate on Thursday.