SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — The Illinois House unanimously passed legislation Tuesday to require insurance companies to cover preventative heart scans.
Sponsors said heart disease is the leading cause of death in Illinois, and many people find out they're at risk when it's too late to act.
This plan requires private individual and group insurance providers to cover heart scans for adults 40 and older when recommended by healthcare providers.
"My aunt passed away at 49 after being told that she might not live to see 50," said Rep. Yolanda Morris (D-Chicago). "Tragically, she did not live to see 50. Too many families experience this kind of loss without warning."
The Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services initially opposed the bill due to the potential cost for state employee health insurance coverage. However, the current language exempts state employee insurance from the mandate.Â
"If the cost was significant enough that the state cannot absorb it within its own health plan, it raises important affordability concerns for those in the marketplace as well," said Kate Morthland from the Illinois Life & Health Insurance Council.
House Bill 4207 now moves to the Senate for further consideration.
Morris told WAND News she hopes to file a separate plan during a less intense budget year to help state employees receive the same coverage.Â
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