Health Care
Since coming to Congress in 2009, I have been a strong supporter of policies that will improve the overall health of my constituents. This includes supporting the Affordable Care Act, advocating for robust biomedical research funding and protecting Medicare for seniors. Thanks to the Affordable Care Act, millions of Americans can now access affordable health insurance. With a focus on personal responsibility, preventive care, consumer protections and increased choices, the Affordable Care Act has helped empower Americans to lead healthier lives.
Rep. Quigley discusses ER management at Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center trauma room with Sharon Ward, RN, the hospital’s director of emergency, trauma, and EMS in 2011 as part of his Undercover Congressman series.
OPEN ENROLLMENT
The open enrollment period for health insurance on the marketplace is November 15, 2014 through February 15, 2015. Coverage can begin as early as January 1, 2015 if you enroll by December 15, 2014. Whether you are looking to enroll in quality health coverage for the first time or change your plan, now is the time to act. Get Covered Illinois has resources to help you access plans from the insurance companies in the state that fit your needs and your budget.
You can also find a specially trained Navigator in your community, who can talk to you in person or on the phone for free about your coverage options and help you enroll.
Three ways to get marketplace coverage:
- Over the phone: Call (866) 311-1119 between 8 am and 8 pm. A customer service representative can help you apply and enroll over the phone.
- Online: Visit GetCoveredIllinois.gov to apply and enroll on the web.
- In-person: Free in-person help is available near you. There are specially trained counselors, called Navigators, or certified agents and brokers ready to help you find the right coverage for you and your family. Visit the Get Covered Illinois site here to find the closest navigator for you.
Find a useful list of FAQs and resources on the Get Covered Illinois site here. My district office is also here to help. Call 773-267-5926 between the hours of 9am and 5pm Monday through Friday, and my staff will be happy to assist you.
WHAT I’M DOING IN D.C. AND AROUND THE DISTRICT
Affordable Care Act (ACA)
I was proud to vote for the Affordable Care Act (ACA) in 2010, the landmark health care reform law that has helped millions of Americans gain access to health insurance. I supported the ACA because of the important reforms that it made to our nation’s health care system. Health insurance companies can no longer drop someone’s coverage because of a pre-existing condition or impose lifetime spending caps on coverage. Americans now have access to preventive health care and important screenings at no out-of-pocket cost. Finally, health care decisions are finally in the hands of Americans – not the insurance companies.
Most importantly, over 800,000 people in Illinois have been enrolled in health insurance plans in the past year thanks to the ACA.
Mental Health
I have been an advocate in Washington for improved access to mental health care for all Americans. I supported funding for the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration and suicide prevention programs. As the only Illinois member of the House Appropriations Committee, I have had the unique opportunity to support veterans by authoring language that encouraged the VA to collaborate with Rush University Hospital in treating our local veterans for mental health issues.
Research
I recognize that biomedical research is crucial for Chicago and Illinois – not only is investing in research good for our local economy, it is the right thing to do for the health of Americans. I stood up to attacks on funding for the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the body that researches causes and cures of serious diseases. In my role on the House Appropriations Committee, I supported cutting-edge research for diseases like breast cancer, autism and multiple sclerosis through the Department of Defense medical research programs.
District Health Care
The men and women who work around the clock to care for us in our local hospitals are the heart and soul of our communities. No matter how much time I spend in Washington, my neighborhood is where the rubber meets the road, and it’s important that I stay connected and hear what issues my constituents are facing firsthand. That’s why I have visited, and even worked, at hospitals and health care centers around the district, so I can experience the challenges my constituents face and see the many ways they serve their community.