Crawford-Backed Medical Debt Relief Plan Has Erased $400 Million in Old Bills

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – A medical debt relief plan backed by state Rep. Mike Crawford, D-Chicago, has now erased over $400 million in medical debt in old bills, providing significant financial relief to Illinoisans and expanding healthcare access and affordability.

“Healthcare is not a privilege, but a right. Too many Illinois patients and families experience significant financial strain after receiving healthcare. Some even opt out of medically necessary care due to financial uncertainty,” said Crawford. “I’m proud to have supported a budget bill that has resulted in such relief for those in need of care or facing medical debt.”

Last May, Crawford voted for a state budget plan that expands the state’s medical debt relief plan. Under this program, every dollar the state invests erases at least $100 in medical debt. So far, families are seeing an average of $1,100 in medical debt relief, which is a leading cause of bankruptcy nationwide.

“You should never have to choose between necessary healthcare and feeding your family or keeping your lights on,” Crawford said. “The Medical Debt Relief Program is critical for our Southside communities, often disproportionately saddled with medical debt and overlooked for charity care at hospitals. This first of its kind debt relief program builds on Chicago’s own pilot program to ensure funds are distributed equitably, residents are able to be more financially secure and quality care continues to be accessible. Illinois continues to set the example for states across the country to follow. I look forward to continuing the progress we’ve made to support our communities.”

To learn more about the medical debt relief program please visit the HFS website.