New IL law creates equitable health outcomes review board to address disparities

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — Illinois will soon establish data collection standards to save lives, promote equitable health outcomes and ensure quality healthcare for all.

A new state law calls for a new state board to review and report data on illnesses, treatments and causes of death in Illinois.

Sponsors said it is critical for Illinois to see health outcomes broken down by race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity and language.

"This legislation is modeled after health boards that were just created in California, Florida, Vermont and a number of other states," said Sen. Mike Simmons (D-Chicago). "Really, it's just for communities that have historically been underserved and lack access to equitable healthcare and have greater risk of succumbing to sickness and disease."

The Health Outcomes Review Board will provide annual data to the Illinois Department of Public Health, healthcare providers and the General Assembly.

Lawmakers hope the new data and analysis can help address major health disparities.

"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."

The new law will take effect January 1.