MORRISON ADVANCES MEASURE ENSURING INSURANCE COVERAGE FOR SEIZURE DETECTION DEVICES

The following information was released by the Illinois Senate Democrats:

State Senator Julie Morrison lead legislation through the Senator providing coverage for medically necessary seizure detection devices bolstering treatment and diagnostic access for those suffering from seizure disorders.

"Detection is a first line defense for many diseases and disorders but it is only helpful if the technology or education that can alert a patient or their loved ones is accessible to them," said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). "By expanding access to live-saving medical technology, like seizure detection devices for those suffering from seizure disorders, we are taking an active step in preventing hospitalizations and improving quality of life for residents."

According to the Center for Disease Control, roughly 2.9 million adults and 456,000 children across the United States suffer from epilepsy or another seizure disorder. Detection devices were created and are accessible by patients affected with seizure disorders to better diagnose, aid and treat seizure events.

Multiple seizure detection devices are approved by the Federal Drug Administration for use by patients to alert the person or authorized users of an oncoming or occurring seizure. This allows the patient or caregiver to get themselves or others to safety and administer rescue medication in a timely manner.

To expand Illinois patient access to these life-saving devices, Senate Bill 2762 would require health insurance plans, excluding State Employee Groups Health plans, to provide coverage for medically necessary seizure detection devices subject to a maximum cost-sharing amount of $50 per plan year.

"We see technology and medicine continue to advance each day, it's time we ensure that these treatments and devices are accessible to those who need them the most, not just those who can pay out of pocket," said Morrison.

Senate Bill 2762 passed the Senate Wednesday, and now heads to the House for further consideration.