Rep. Barbara Hernandez Pushes for Substance Abuse Coverage, Recovery Awareness

AURORA, Ill. – Thousands of Illinoisans recovering from substance abuse disorders will receive critical assistance because of recent work by state Rep. Barbara Hernandez, D-Aurora.

“Throughout our community there are people struggling to overcome the terrible effects of substance abuse disorders,” Hernandez said. “Recovery is a long and difficult process, and we need to provide people with the support they need to successfully beat their disease. The primary way to address the problem is with legislative measures that support rehabilitative processes. However, during Recovery Awareness Month, it is also worth highlighting their struggle and offering survivors encouragement.”

Apart from highlighting Recovery Awareness Month, Hernandez has been part of consistently-successful efforts to expand mental health coverage in Illinois and overhaul how our medical system treats substance abuse. She worked to achieve cost parity for substance abuse treatment so no one in recovery will have to pay prohibitively-high fees for the health care they need. Hernandez also helped pass legislation to ensure hospitals admit anyone experiencing serious drug-related withdrawal symptomps.

“Illinois has the chance to be a leader in substance abuse care, and I will continue to ensure we take advantage of that opportunity,” Hernandez said. “It’s time we put an end to outdated ideas about what it means to be in recovery and start lending a hand to our neighbors who need support. Recovering from a substance abuse disorder is tremendously difficult, and our state should be providing the best are possible for those seeking help.”