Ammons-Led Program Advancing Health Equity Erases Medical Debt for 52,000 Illinoisans

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. – A medical debt relief initiative backed by state Rep. Carol Ammons, D-Urbana, has eliminated $72 million in old medical bills for more than 52,000 Illinoisans, with more relief on the way.

“Medical debt relief is one of the most efficient ways to address financial inequality, and I’m proud the state is hitting the ground running with one of the nation’s first medical debt relief programs to help our neighbors overcome insurmountable medical costs,” said Ammons. “This investment strengthens local communities by reducing reliance on state aid and creating more inclusive access to much-needed healthcare.”

Ammons was integral to passing House Bill 5290 last spring, implementing the state’s Medical Debt Relief Pilot Program. The program has forgiven over $72 million in debt for more than 52,000 Illinoisans and is part of the state’s ongoing commitment to improving health equity in Illinois, where Black Illinoisans are 50% more likely to accrue medical debt than their white peers.

The program is eligible for low-income residents with a household income at or below 400% of the federal poverty level or whose medical debt exceeds 5% of their household income, allowing families to prioritize their health without financial burden.

“Communities of color, especially the Black community, are bearing the brunt of medical debt. Eliminating this burden directly addresses systemic health disparities that bar lower-income families from receiving preventive and ongoing care,” said Ammons.

Eligible Illinois residents need not apply but will receive notification letters after their debt has been eliminated. More information can be found here.