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Illinois governor pitches health insurance program in D.C.

Physician Practice Advisor, December 21, 2005

Illinois Governor Rod R. Blagojevich was in Washington this week promoting his state's new $180 million "All Kids" health insurance program that aims to provide comprehensive healthcare to all uninsured children in Illinois, according to the Chicago Tribune. Although the Illinois program has not been implemented yet, Blagojevich is helping Illinois Democrats Sen. Richard J. Durbin and Rep. Rahm Emanuel promote a national version of the legislation in Congress.

Under the "All Kids" program, which seeks to insure the 250,000 uninsured Illinois children, parents will pay monthly premiums and co-payments for doctor visits and prescription drugs, but not for preventive care visits such as check-ups and annual immunizations. The rates for "All Kids" coverage will be based on a family's income and will be significantly less expensive than typical private insurance premiums.

A study released by Families USA in October estimated that the "All Kids" program could generate $87 million in business activities and nearly $31 million in new wages in its first year.

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