SPRINGFIELD – Cancer is a serious disease that touches most lives in one way or another.  State Senator Julie Morrison introduced a measure that would require insurance to cover preventative cancer screenings and genetic testing for individuals with a family history of cancer.

“Taking preventative measures increases the chances of survival and is more cost effective than treatment,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “Early diagnosis is the best way to tackle the deadly effects of cancer.”

SPRINGFIELD –State Senator Julie Morrison is leading a measure to curb substance use disorders.

“People suffering from a substance use disorder deserve access to the lifesaving treatment they need,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “I am committed to removing the barriers that insurance companies put in place.”

SPRINGFIELD – The cost of managing diabetes can be a significant burden for many families. To help ease the financial strain experienced by those managing this condition, State Senator Julie Morrison introduced a measure to expand insurance coverage for medically necessary glucose monitors and related supplies.

“Having to make the choice between insulin and other necessities is unacceptable,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “It is my goal to ensure that insurance companies adequately cover the families who rely on them.”

Senate Bill 3414 requires insurance companies to cover glucose monitors, related supplies, and training in the use of glucose monitors for individuals diagnosed with any form of diabetes. The measure includes that an individual won’t need to have prior authorization for coverage for a glucose monitor and prohibits insurance from imposing cost-sharing requirements.

SPRINGFIELD – Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy – also known as DMD – is a rare disorder, but severe if not caught early enough to be treated. State Senator Julie Morrison introduced a bill that would require all newborns to be screened for DMD.

“Although rare, DMD is a devastating disease – often taking children from their parents around the age of 5,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “Early diagnoses of DMD will save precious lives and restore hope.”

By the time the symptoms of DMD are detected, it is typically too late to treat. Additionally, it takes 2.5 years on average to diagnose after caregivers first notice symptoms – giving children little to no time to receive help. Senate Bill 2658 would require each newborn to be screened for the disease, giving those diagnosed the ability to receive affective treatment.