HB 5219

Abstract

Amends the Medical Assistance Article of the Illinois Public Aid Code. Requires the Department of Healthcare and Family Services to establish a Prescription Produce Program to allow cancer patients who are otherwise eligible for medical assistance to receive coverage for fresh produce as they undergo cancer treatment. Provides that under the program, the Department shall provide Prescription Produce Program coupons to eligible persons who have a prescription from a licensed physician for fresh produce as part of any cancer treatment regimen. Provides that coupon holders may redeem their coupons at any participating food retailer. Provides that farmers markets located in "food deserts" and grocery stores that accept Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits may participate in the program as designated retailers that accept Prescription Produce Program coupons. Permits the Department to provide incentives to solicit food retailers to participate in the program. Provides that the Department may adopt any rules necessary to implement the program. Amends the Illinois Insurance Code. Provides that a group or individual policy of accident and health insurance or managed care plan that is amended, delivered, issued, or renewed after the effective date of the amendatory Act may provide coverage for fresh food prescribed by a licensed physician as part of any cancer treatment regimen. Defines "fresh food" to mean fresh food grown in the earth such as fruit, vegetables, and grain.