Illinois Advocates Take on Health Insuranc...(ance to families who need it most. ...),Health

The Individual Health Insurance Fairness Act would guarantee access to coverage regardless of pre-existing conditions; prevent insurers from charging more based on health status or gender; and establish Office of Patient Protection to conduct external independent reviews of denied claims and rate increases. The Act also requires insurers to spend at least 85% of premium dollars on medical care rather than on executives' salaries, marketing, and profits and would create new guidelines allowing small businesses and self-employed individuals better access to affordable policies.

"Under my employer's insurance, the out-of-pocket costs for my medication were so high, that I had to choose between the medication and food," said Terre Taylor, an HIV/AIDS advocate. "This bill would make insurance more affordable and ensure that no one else would have to be in this situation."

"Illinoisans are tired of paying more and getting less in the health care marketplace," said Brian Imus, State Director for Illinois PIRG. "The reforms announced today will ensure the transparency and accountability needed in the health insurance industry so consumers can afford adequate and dependable coverage for their families."

"This Act will help bring more equity to the private insurance market, especially for women, by getting rid of discriminatory practices that allow insurance companies to charge women higher premiums and consider pregnancy a pre-existing condition," said Kathy Chan, Policy Director with the Illinois Maternal and Child Health Coalition.

Since the start of the recession, nearly 4 million people have lost their health care, with a national average of 14,000 losing their health insurance everyday. In Illinois it's estimated that 650 residents lose their jobs daily - with many also losing health coverage. In the private market, an average annual premium for a family of four ha
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