SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Cristina Castro bolstered support for a measure that secures mental health parity, which allows for the equal treatment of mental health conditions and substance use in insurance plans.

“The lack of in-network mental health coverage in insurance plans discourages people who need services from seeking the help they need,” said Castro. “Taking this step gives residents peace of mind that they can rely on the insurance plans they have been paying into and make the most out of their coverage.”

House Bill 1085 would create a formula to calculate mental health and substance use reimbursement rates. The bill would then task the Illinois Department of Insurance with utilizing the formula to calculate rates and publish them in a bulletin for use by insurers.

Updating reimbursement rates would ensure more behavioral health providers join networks, ensuring individuals are able to access the care outlined within their benefits in a timely manner without having to go out-of-network.

“Having a wider range of in- network provider options for clients to choose from allows for clients to pick the best provider for their needs, not to settle for less” said Castro. “Quality care for patients and meaningful compensation for providers is the top priority in this legislation.”

House Bill 1085 passed the Senate last Thursday.