Changes to Life-Saving Allergy Medication Included in Illinois’ New Laws
Insurance Companies Must Limit Epinephrine Injector Prices
Starting January 1, insurance companies in Illinois will be required to limit the price of a twin pack of epinephrine injectors to $60 or less. This change will significantly impact the cost of life-saving medication for individuals with severe allergies. Currently, the medication costs up to $600 and expires each year, making it difficult for some people to access this essential treatment.
A Life-Saving Medication, a Lifelong Struggle
Dr. Juanita Mora, a Chicago allergist, is a strong advocate for the new law. She explains that the high cost of epinephrine injectors meant that many people who needed them did not have access to this crucial medication. “This is a decision between life and death,” she emphasized. “Who needs epinephrine or adrenaline injectors? People who have life-threatening food allergies. That’s one in every 10 adults and one in every 13 children.”
Benefitting a Large Population
The new law will benefit an estimated 1.2 million people in Illinois who suffer from life-threatening allergies. Mora hopes that the lower cost of epinephrine injectors will encourage everyone with a life-threatening allergy to carry an injector. She also encourages restaurants, airlines, and other public places to have the injectors on hand in case of emergencies.
New Laws Taking Effect January 1
While this law specifically focuses on epinephrine injector prices, Illinois is implementing many new laws as of January 1, ranging from transportation to medical insurance and safety regulations. For more information on the new laws, click here.
Conclusion
The new law limiting the price of epinephrine injectors will have a significant impact on individuals with severe allergies in Illinois. By making this life-saving medication more affordable, the state is taking a crucial step in protecting the health and well-being of its citizens. As Dr. Mora emphasizes, this is a decision between life and death, and this law will help ensure that those in need have access to this essential treatment.
FAQs
Q: Why is it important to have epinephrine injectors readily available?
A: Epinephrine injectors are crucial for individuals with life-threatening allergies, as they can help restore breathing and circulation in emergency situations.
Q: How will this law benefit those with allergies in Illinois?
A: This law will benefit an estimated 1.2 million people in Illinois who suffer from life-threatening allergies by making epinephrine injectors more affordable and accessible.
Q: Why do epinephrine injectors expire?
A: Epinephrine injectors contain a medication that is sensitive to light and heat, which can affect its potency over time. Therefore, it is essential to use them before the expiration date.
