WASHINGTON, D.C. – As part of her efforts to expand and improve health care access for Illinois residents, state Rep. Jenn Ladisch Douglass, D-Elmhurst, joined lawmakers from around the country this week in Washington for a Medicaid-focused conference that discussed challenges and solutions aimed at improving outcomes.

“If we want to pursue effective Medicaid and health care policies in Illinois, we have to be open to ideas and best practices we’re seeing in other parts of the country,” Ladisch Douglass said. “This conference has been a great opportunity to meet and engage policy leaders, and I look forward to sharing the information I learned with my colleagues back home.”

Organized by the Council of State Governments, the Medicaid Policy Academy was a three-day program that brought together state administration and legislative officials who are engaged with Medicaid programs and health care policy. Together, attendees met for presentations and workshops that discussed topics including legislative oversight, eligibility changes, waiver processes and coverage expansions.

Ladisch Douglass led a presentation on the federal approval of the Illinois Healthcare Transformation Section 1115 Demonstration waiver, which further empowers the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services to expand Medicaid coverage. In particular, the effort aims to address root causes of health disparity – including housing and food insecurity. Violence prevention and intervention services, as well as help with incarceration transitions are also a priority of the initiative.

Additionally, Ladisch Douglass was able to highlight her own efforts in Illinois with Senate Bill 3414, a measure that helps more diabetes patients access lifesaving continuous glucose monitors (CGM) that provide individuals real-time updates on blood sugar levels. Her proposal – which was recently signed into law –requires insurance coverage for the devices, related supplies, a transmitter if necessary and training in the use of the device for any individual diagnosed with diabetes. It further cleared up barriers to coverage, particularly for those with type 2 diabetes. It also allowed more physicians to prescribe a CGM, and eliminated state rules that required a history of emergency room visits or hospitalizations prior to being able to use a CGM.

“Our policy decisions can have a real impact on the health and wellbeing of residents, and it’s critical that we are willing to put in the work necessary to overcome hurdles,” Ladisch Douglass said. “Medicaid policy can be complicated, but with so much at stake we have to make it a priority. This week’s discussions and collaboration have been very helpful and I look forward to continuing to work on these important policies.”

For more information, please visit https://www.csg.org/work/csg-policy-academy-series/medicaid-policy/ or contact Office.RepJLD@gmail.com.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – As part of her efforts to expand and improve health care access for Illinois residents, state Rep. Jenn Ladisch Douglass, D-Elmhurst, joined lawmakers from around the country this week in Washington for a Medicaid-focused conference that discussed challenges and solutions aimed at improving outcomes.

“If we want to pursue effective Medicaid and health care policies in Illinois, we have to be open to ideas and best practices we’re seeing in other parts of the country,” Ladisch Douglass said. “This conference has been a great opportunity to meet and engage policy leaders, and I look forward to sharing the information I learned with my colleagues back home.”

Organized by the Council of State Governments, the Medicaid Policy Academy was a three-day program that brought together state administration and legislative officials who are engaged with Medicaid programs and health care policy. Together, attendees met for presentations and workshops that discussed topics including legislative oversight, eligibility changes, waiver processes and coverage expansions.

Ladisch Douglass led a presentation on the federal approval of the Illinois Healthcare Transformation Section 1115 Demonstration waiver, which further empowers the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services to expand Medicaid coverage. In particular, the effort aims to address root causes of health disparity – including housing and food insecurity. Violence prevention and intervention services, as well as help with incarceration transitions are also a priority of the initiative.

Additionally, Ladisch Douglass was able to highlight her own efforts in Illinois with Senate Bill 3414, a measure that helps more diabetes patients access lifesaving continuous glucose monitors (CGM) that provide individuals real-time updates on blood sugar levels. Her proposal – which was recently signed into law – requires insurance coverage for the devices, related supplies, a transmitter if necessary and training in the use of the device for any individual diagnosed with diabetes. It further cleared up barriers to coverage, particularly for those with type 2 diabetes. It also allowed more physicians to prescribe a CGM, and eliminated state rules that required a history of emergency room visits or hospitalizations prior to being able to use a CGM.

“Our policy decisions can have a real impact on the health and wellbeing of residents, and it’s critical that we are willing to put in the work necessary to overcome hurdles,” Ladisch Douglass said. “Medicaid policy can be complicated, but with so much at stake we have to make it a priority. This week’s discussions and collaboration have been very helpful and I look forward to continuing to work on these important policies.”

For more information, please visit https://www.csg.org/work/csg-policy-academy-series/medicaid-policy/ or contact Office.RepJLD@gmail.com.

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – More Illinois diabetes patients would have access to Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGM) under a plan passed by state Rep. Jenn Ladisch Douglass, D-Elmhurst.

“Continuous Glucose Monitors are a game changer for all diabetes patients, but too many Illinois residents have limited to no access to these devices,” Ladisch Douglass said. “In particular, older residents and people of color are disproportionately impacted, missing out on a device that can prevent serious health complications. As someone who has type 1 diabetes, I know firsthand how vital CGMs are for creating better health outcomes. It’s incredibly important we take the action needed to get monitors in the hands of more people soon.”

Ladisch Douglass helped lead the bipartisan passage of Senate Bill 3414 which requires insurance coverage for a CGM, related supplies, a transmitter if necessary and training in the use of the device for any individual diagnosed with diabetes. The measure further clears up barriers to coverage – particularly for those with type 2 diabetes – and applies to all state regulated health plans and Medicaid. It allows more physicians to prescribe a CGM, and eliminates state rules that required a history of emergency room visits or hospitalizations prior to being able to use a CGM.

Increasingly popular and accurate, CGMs are devices placed on a person’s body to continually monitor their blood sugar levels and provide them with real-time updates.

“It makes no sense that rules were in place requiring someone to have a serious health emergency prior to accessing a device that would have prevented it,” Ladisch Douglass said. “These updates are going to create healthier outcomes and make a real difference in the lives of many for years to come.”

“We should be taking full advantage of the health benefits of these devices and making sure everyone eligible has access to it,” state Rep. Stephanie Kifowit, D-Oswego, said. “Removing unnecessary barriers is going to help save lives and will bring additional peace of mind for families across our state. I appreciate the strong advocacy and leadership from Rep. Ladisch Douglass in making this a reality.”

Senate Bill 3414 will soon head to the governor for final approval.

For more information, please contact Office.RepJLD@gmail.com or 630-413-1080.

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. Jenn Ladisch Douglass, D-Elmhurst, issued the following statement Wednesday after Gov. J.B. Pritzker gave his annual budget address:

“Our state budget reflects our values, and it’s critical that we take a human-centered approach that supports working families and our most vulnerable. I appreciate the governor’s willingness today to highlight health care, and I’m looking forward to seeing how we can effectively direct resources and improve access statewide. From cancer screenings to behavioral health, we have to prioritize access to care for all ages and for every community.

“We must also continue to invest in and support our children on their educational path from early childhood through college. Illinois faces a number of significant challenges, but there are also many opportunities available for us that we can pursue with a responsible budget. I look forward to reviewing the governor’s outline in detail, and will continue to engage local stakeholders to hear their thoughts as we work toward a final document.”

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WESTMONT, Ill. – State Rep. Jenn Ladisch Douglass, D-Elmhurst, is highlighting state grants coming to local public school libraries that will support programs and the acquisition of library books, e-books, audiobooks, periodicals, multilingual materials and learning technology.

“School libraries are an essential component for a quality education, and this funding will help to directly support their mission,” said Ladisch Douglass. “Libraries continue to evolve, and it’s critical that they receive the resources they need to provide a modern learning experience for students.”

Under the recently announced grants, Elmhurst Unit School District 205 will be provided $7,002, Hinsdale Consolidated School District 181 will receive $2,741, Maercker School District 60 will see $1,144 and Westmont Community Unit School District 201 will receive $1,087.

The grants were issued under Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, who also serves as State Librarian. Across the state, more than $1.4 million in grants were awarded to 2,713 qualified school libraries. Additional information about the grants can be viewed at https://www.ilsos.gov/news/2023/december/231215d1.pdf.

“School libraries are foundational for many and can inspire lifelong learning,” said Ladisch Douglass. “I’m grateful for our dedicated local librarians who continue to spark imaginations, support our children and enable them to unlock their potential.”

For more information, please contact Office.RepJLD@gmail.com or 630-413-1080.

WESTMONT, Ill. – State Rep. Jenn Ladisch Douglass, D-Elmhurst, is applauding new youth mental health service funding recently announced by the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) that will go toward supporting area students.

“Youth mental health is increasingly receiving the attention and prioritization it deserves,” Ladisch Douglass said. “Particularly in the wake of a pandemic that had a significant effect on children across our community, these are helpful resources that will help local districts in their efforts to support students.”

Salt Creek School District 48, School District 45, Marquardt School District 15 and Elmhurst Community Unit School District 205 are each in line to receive grants worth $249,000 in support of youth mental health services. The grants are being issued through IDPH under state dollars and funding authorized by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). Overall, the grant program is committing $9.5 million to 40 applicants across the state for various programs – including hiring mental health professionals, counseling, educator training, suicide awareness and prevention, specialized curriculum and more.

“I appreciate the commitment from our local districts to secure resources that can make a difference in the lives of their students,” Ladisch Douglass. “It’s critical that the state continues to value and support investment in these efforts.”

For more information, please contact Office.RepJLD@gmail.com or 630-413-1080

ADDISON, Ill. – State Rep. Jenn Ladisch Douglass, D-Elmhurst, is encouraging residents to take advantage of free services at a community health fair scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 21 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Addison Township Building, located at 401 N. Addison Rd. in Addison.

“This is an opportunity to receive some basic health checks and engage area organizations that help people access the care and resources they need,” Ladisch Douglass said. “Particularly as we enter the colder months of the year when more people are likely to get sick, it’s worthwhile to do some checkups and ensure you have helpful information on hand.”

Available services at Saturday’s event include blood pressure checks, blood sugar tests, flu vaccines, information for physical fitness, medical power of attorney information and more. Participating organizations include VNA Healthcare, BlueCross Blue Shield and NAACP.

Ladisch Douglass is hosting the event in coordination with state Rep. Diane Blair-Sherlock, D-Villa Park, and state Rep. Norma Hernandez, D-Melrose Park.

For more information, please contact Office.RepJLD@gmail.com or 630-413-1080.

ELMHURST, Ill. – Supporting efforts to make insulin more affordable, a proposal carried by state Rep. Jenn Ladisch Douglass, D-Elmhurst, to cap the 30-day supply of insulin for state-regulated plans at $35 was signed into law Friday.

“Insulin is not something that is optional for anyone,” Ladisch Douglass said. “It’s a critical component of care and an ongoing treatment for those dealing with diabetes. As someone who has lived with type 1 diabetes for 30 years, I’m thankful for the advocacy and bipartisan support we received on this plan which will help save lives.”

Ladisch Douglass’ House Bill 2189 will lower the existing co-pay cap – for state-regulated plans – on a 30-day supply of covered prescription insulin drugs from $100 to $35. The measure also establishes a discount program for eligible residents to purchase insulin at a discounted post-rebate price and pursue reimbursement from their health insurer.

According to the Illinois Department of Public Health, approximately 1.3 million adults in Illinois have diabetes. Another 3.6 million state residents are believed to have prediabetes.

“Implementation of this law is going to help a lot of people in every part of the state, and it’s critical that we build on it,” Ladisch Douglass said. “More work remains, and I look forward to engaging stakeholders on ways we can continue to expand health care access and lower costs for families.”

House Bill 2189 passed with bipartisan support without opposition. Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed the proposal on Friday.

For more information, please contact Office.RepJLD@gmail.com.

ELMHURST, Ill. – Wanting to help residents access the property tax savings they deserve, state Rep. Jenn Ladisch Douglass, D-Elmhurst, is partnering with York Township for a property tax appeal presentation this Wednesday, Aug. 9 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Wilder Mansion, located at 211 S. Prospect Ave. in Elmhurst.

“If you have questions about your property taxes and aren’t sure where to start, this is a great opportunity to connect with local officials on what you can do,” Ladisch Douglass said. “The focus of this presentation will be on the appeal process which can help homeowners save money.”

Wednesday’s event is free and open to the public. An RSVP is not required, but residents are encouraged to join early to view the full presentation and have time for questions. To view online information from the York Township Assessor’s Office, including information about exemptions and details on appealing, please visit yorktwsp.com/assessor-home.

For more information, please contact Office.RepJLD@gmail.com.

WESTMONT, Ill. – As part of efforts to better understand the issues impacting all Illinois residents, State Rep. Jenn Ladisch Douglass, D-Elmhurst, recently took a family tour across Illinois to see firsthand the shared and unique challenges and opportunities facing communities across the state.

“In an era of division and isolation, it’s important to visit unfamiliar areas to gain appreciation and a better, more informed perspective,” Ladisch Douglass said. “The decisions we make in Springfield impact every corner of the state, and this trip was a wonderful opportunity to engage residents, hear their stories and build a better understanding of the common issues we face – such as improving infrastructure, supporting classrooms, and increasing access to food and health care.”

Over a period of two weeks, Ladisch Douglass and her family visited numerous communities, from the state’s southern tip of Cairo to Joliet. In addition to viewing historic sites that tell the state’s history, Ladisch Douglass engaged local residents, businesses and organizations. Stops along the journey included:

• Fabyan Windmill (Batavia)
• Camp Hunt (Ottawa)
• The Rootbeer Stand (Oglesby)
• State Farm Research and Development Center (Bloomington)
• Joliet Iron Works Historic Site (Joliet)
• ASIP Local 150 Training Center (Wilmington)
• Rivian (Normal)
• Lincoln’s Tomb (Springfield)
• Tiger Fiber (Sauget)
• Fountain Creek Limestone Arch Bridge (Waterloo)
• Holy Cross Lutheran Church (Waterloo)
• Fort de Chartres (Prairie du Rocher)
• Fort Kaskaskia (Ellis Grove)
• Kaskaskia Bell State Memorial (Kaskaskia)
• Mary’s River Covered Bridge (Chester)
• Popeye Statues (Chester)
• Rockwood Trading Post (Rockwood)
• Inspiration Point Trailhead (Wolf Lake)
• Peachbarn Winery and Café (Alto Pass)
• Bald Knob Cross of Peace (Alto Pass)
• Trail of Tears (IL 146)
• Fort Defiance State Park (Cairo)
• Warren-Henderson Farm Bureau (Monmouth)
• ComEd Switching Station (Joliet)

“Illinois succeeds when every region and every community succeeds,” Ladisch Douglass said. “This was an excellent trip for my family, and I encourage others to travel and spend some time discovering the countless treasures around our state. No matter your interests, you’re sure to find something you enjoy.”

For more information, please contact Office.RepJLD@gmail.com.