As of March of this year, several changes in the course of health insurance in Illinois have taken place. The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act was signed by President Obama on March 23, 2010. It seeks to improve the performance, transparency and accountability of health insurers and health insurance in the state of Illinois. The Act contains several reforms, such as the requirement of health insurance companies to cover all individuals regardless of their health status. This particular reform will not take place until 2014, but many others will seek effect immediately or in the very near future.

                Some other changes that the Act will put into place are the requirement that health insurance companies post information justifying any payment increase that takes place on their website. The Department of Insurance, in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, will review unreasonable premium increases before they take effect.

                The Act will provide tax credits for small businesses, provided they contribute at least 50% of the premium costs for health coverage provided to employees, and businesses with fewer than 25 full time employees will be eligible for tax credits of up to 35%.

                The Act will also benefit senior citizens. In 2010, Medicare Part D recipients who qualify  will be eligible for a $250 rebate. In 2011, recipients will be eligible for a 50% discount on brand name prescription drugs, should they qualify.

                Uninsured persons also stand to benefit from the Act, as those with preexisting medical conditions will have increased access to coverage through high risk health insurance pool, administered by the State. This pool will work in conjunction with the Illinois Comprehensive Health Insurance Plan. Persons should be insured for 6 months before applying and must quality with a preexisting health condition.