SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – For her continued advocacy for local hospices and other long-term care facilities, state Rep. Natalie Manley, D-Joliet, was recently presented the Heart of Hospice Award by Joliet Area Community Hospice.

“Hospice is specialized end-of-life care. They assist those with terminal illnesses by providing the medical services needed and the emotional support for both patient and family,” said Manley.  “I will continue fighting to support Hospice, so that they can continue to fulfill their mission for our loved ones.”

Manley has continually advocated for Illinois Hospice in Springfield, and spearheaded legislation to change Illinois law to allow hospice and long-term care facilities to expand their bed capacities, allowing them to provide dignified end-of-life care to those in need throughout the state.  Manley is also currently working to pass legislation to reroute the current reimbursement system existing for Medicaid enrollees at long-term care facilities.

“I want to ensure that Hospice has the support that they need so that they can continue providing dignified end-of-life care and so that patients and their families never have to be concerned about being turned away or being denied access to resources,” continued Manley.  “I am proud to have been honored with the Heart of Hospice Award, and I will continue standing up for and supporting Hospice care.”