Illinois is in crisis. Unless our leaders in Springfield take action, millions of Illinois children could be denied the health care they need.

Families all across our state need specialized care for their kids. Conditions like asthma, diabetes, epilepsy and rheumatoid arthritis all require treatment by a pediatric specialist. However, pediatric specialists are reimbursed an average of just 33 cents for every dollar of cost to care for young patients insured by All Kids and Medicaid. Illinois has the 42nd lowest reimbursement rate in the nation, and pediatric specialists here have gone more than 8 years without a rate increase from the State.

What have been the consequences of low reimbursements? Many doctors in Illinois can no longer afford to care for patients covered by All Kids. In some areas of the State, there are no pediatric specialists available and parents must drive many hours from their home just so their kids can see a doctor.

We Care For Illinois Kids is a coalition of physicians, families, and concerned citizens like you. Join us in calling on Governor Blagojevich and the Illinois General Assembly to support efforts to reverse this catastrophic trend and protect our children’s access to the very best health care.