Networking for quality health care for all

Early in 1998, the Health Department hosted a summit on the uninsured that proved to be the beginning catalyst in a continuing process of assuring access to quality health care. In late February, some 55 persons representing human service organizations, hospitals, healthcare agencies and the insurance industry confirmed their commitment to extending health insurance to DuPage residents. The summit was co-hosted by the DuPage Federation and the DuPage County Medical Society.

“We were impressed not only by the turnout, but by the high level of energy and enthusiasm that was evident,” said Executive Director Dr. David R. McNutt. “This dedicated group of people believes that low-income individuals and families should have access to health care coverage at a cost they can afford. This includes those who are employed, but have no health insurance. Surveys and other evidence indicate that as few as 60,000 and as many as 130,000 DuPage residents lack health insurance.”

Those in attendance at the summit divided into two work groups. During the next months, they developed a health care plan for low-income residents that was endorsed by the Board of Health, the DuPage Federation and the DuPage County Medical Society in November. The proposed structure calls for a 501c3-partnership board that includes the Health Department, the Medical Society, the County Board, the County Human Services Department and other providers. Agencies which already extend services to this population will be tapped for resources, including hospitals and private providers who offer limited treatment for those who cannot pay. The health plan will be staffed by employees of the County Human Services Department with Blue Cross/Blue Shield or another similar agency donating administrative services. Enrollment will take place at varied sites around the county including the Health Department.

Helping with KidCare

The Health Department has positioned itself to be a major force in extending health care coverage to DuPage children. In 1998, outreach efforts began in earnest to enroll children in KidCare. KidCare is the Illinois Department of Human Services and Illinois Department of Public Aid program that extends coverage to uninsured children up to 133% of the federal poverty level. Families can enroll in KidCare at Health Department locations with the help of staff.

As one of the designated pilot sites of the Illinois Maternal and Child Health Coalition, the Health Department was awarded a Robert Wood Johnson Foundation grant under the program “Covering Kids: A National Health Access Initiative for Low-Income Uninsured Children.” The funds will be used as part of a statewide effort to enroll low-income children up to age 19 in available health care programs, including KidCare. Staff from both Community Health Services and Behavioral and Mental Health Services will work towards this important initiative.

The coalition will receive $1 million for three years, of which the Health Department will receive $56,000 annually over those three years.

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