There is general consensus that the new system is not a bad one, but the speed with which the Governor wants it implemented is potentially devastating. To put it in perspective, many advocates view the proposals as the biggest threat to disabled children, adults and their families since de-institutionalization.

It is estimated that implementation of the Governor's proposal will reduce mental health services by 25%.  Providers cannot absorb a 90 day delay in payment, and covered services have not been defined.

HB5000h is a vehicle for slowing down the process proposed in Gov. Blagojevich's 2005 budget which would implement a Fee For Service payment plan for providers such as Chestnut Health Systems, Community Counseling, Comprehensive Mental Health, etc. effective July 1, 2004.  The concern is that putting the Governor's proposal into effect in July could have disastrous results on the delivery of services for mentally ill clients. HB5000h in its present form provides that the Dept. of Human Services may initiate a 2 year pilot project to phase in the improvement of delivery of community-based services by contract, which will: 1. increase the number of service contracts open to a competitive selection process. 2. increase the number of programs contracted on a fee-for-service basis. 3. attract more federal Medicaid matching dollars 4. utilize performance-based contracts in the provision of such service.

This friday (04/02/04) is the deadline for HB 5000h to clear the House!
see Committee Action below
ALL NAMI-IL MEMBERS ARE ASKED TO COMMUNICATE WITH THEIR LEGISLATORS TO EXPLAIN OUR CONCERNS AND ASK THAT THEY SUPPORT HB 5000h.

This week is the deadline for HB 5000h to clear the House.
Thanks again for all your efforts!