SPRINGFIELD – To expand access to health care coverage, State Senator Ann Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights) passed a Medicaid reform package in the Illinois Senate on Monday that adds coverage for a variety of services and provides more care to older Illinoisans.

“Expanding Medicaid coverage will result in better health outcomes for the most vulnerable,” Gillespie said. “This measure adds essential care options to the Medicaid program and will ensure that everyone has access to quality care.”

The legislation would add chiropractic care, post-kidney transplant management, counseling on how to quit smoking and peer support services for veterans to the list of covered services under the Illinois Medicaid program. It also requires the Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) to deliver more social services to older residents.

The measure also increases the Medicaid reimbursement rates for immunizations for children under 21, dental services and for mental health, marriage and family counseling.

Senate Bill 2294 passed the Illinois Senate with unanimous support and awaits the governor’s signature.