Scherer-Backed Measure Protect Seniors from Predatory Insurance Companies

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. Sue Scherer, D-Decatur, recently filed a consumer protection measure aimed at protecting older adults and patients at risk of exploitation from deceptive sales tactics by insurance companies.

“Older adults and individuals receiving memory care are particularly vulnerable to high-pressure sales tactics from people and businesses pushing expensive insurance plans that ultimately provide little to no actual coverage,” said Scherer. “These are seniors suffering from dementia, Alzheimer’s, and the effects of aging who need to be protected from these sales.”

Scherer’s House Bill 1865 will curb abusive practices by regulating how health insurance companies and their representatives can communicate with individuals over the age of 65, who are suffering from dementia, living in a long-term care facility or nursing home. The solicitor must provide the senior with an opt-out option, advice to discuss changes with a family member and company contact information. Most importantly, solicitors cannot require a purchase at the first communication, which is a trick often used to entrap our most vulnerable seniors. Sales are also illegal if the solicitation is made without the consultation of the senior’s designated attorney-in-fact if one is established or has a cognitive impairment.

“There seems to be no end in sight to the amount of different scummy tactics that health insurance companies employ to take advantage of our most vulnerable,” said Scherer. “But today is a new day in Illinois, and I’m proud to stand up for our seniors and say no to big insurance companies that consistently put profits over people.”