SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Napoleon Harris III is supporting a measure designed to protect Illinois residents from surprise health care billing when they need to take an ambulance to the hospital.  

“Access to timely medical services shouldn’t cost the same as your mortgage payment,” said Harris (D-Harvey). “This legislation is a critical step forward in protecting the people of Illinois from unexpected and often crippling medical bills for essential services like ambulance transport.”

Senate Bill 2405, the Consumer Protection from Surprise Health Care Billing Act, would ensure patients do not pay more for an out-of-network ambulance than they would for an in-network ambulance. The goal is to alleviate the financial burden often placed on patients who are unexpectedly billed for ambulance services, which can be a significant out-of-pocket expense.

It is estimated that only about 30% ambulance providers are considered “in-network” and are covered by insurance. Of course when someone needs an ambulance to go to the hospital, they don’t get a choice on who takes them. The problem that often arises is the extremely high out-of-pocket costs because your insurance doesn’t cover it.

“I am committed to ensuring every Illinoisan has access to the care they need when they need it,” said Harris. “In situations where choice is completely removed from health care, like when your life is at risk and you need to get to the hospital as soon as possible, you shouldn’t have to take out a loan just to pay it off.”

Senate Bill 2405 awaits further action before the Illinois Senate.