SPRINGFIELD – A measure to help connect hospital patients to financial assistance for medical costs spearheaded by State Senator Robert Peters is set to take effect on Jan. 1.

“These days, even people with medical insurance are financially deterred from seeking medical attention and preventative care,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “This new law will improve health outcomes in all of our communities by alleviating financial burdens associated with costly medical care costs.”

The law will require hospitals to screen a patient for financial assistance eligibility and to exhaust all cost-reducing avenues before taking a collection action against the patient. Additionally, the measure will provide a 90-day window for a patient to apply for financial assistance or hospital-provided discounts after receiving care.

Peters passage of House Bill 2719 is in response to the disconnect between health institutions and the resources needed to inform their clients of helpful financial assistance programs.