This week the Illinois House and Senate passed into law House Bill 1432, which strengthens the Illinois mental health parity law by providing fair and equal insurance coverage for individuals suffering from anorexia nervosa and bulimia. Historically, insurance companies have resisted recognizing eating disorders as diseases and have refused to cover treatment costs. The bill was initially vetoed by Governor Rod Blagojevich, but the Illinois State House of Representatives and State Senate overrode the governor's veto.

Dr. Kimberly Dennis was interviewed by the Southtown Star for a story about the bill's passage. Dr. Dennis, the medical director at Timberline Knolls, a residential treatment facility for eating disorders located in Lemont, Illinois, applauded the vote:

"We congratulate the members of our state senate and house who realized the urgency of passing House Bill 1432 into law as fast as possible ... this bill is a major step forward in eliminating discriminatory barriers that limit access to health care for those suffering from an eating disorder."

The President of Timberline Knolls, James Gresham, also commented:

"We hope the actions of the Illinois State Senate and House of Representatives will end the suffering of many dealing with eating disorders in our state. This new legislation will make treatment available to many in need and give them hope that recovery is possible. ... It is very significant that the Illinois State Senate and House of Representatives recognized the importance of providing equal medical coverage to those suffering from eating disorders. ... Anorexia and bulimia are real and very dangerous illnesses and without proper treatment, are often deadly."

(Source: southtownstar.com)

Posted By: jgarcia