Illinois COVID-19 Update

April 1, 2020

At today’s press briefing, the Illinois Dept. of Public Health (IDPH) announced 986 new COVID-19 cases, for a total of 6,980 cases in 56 counties statewide. Forty-two new deaths were reported for a total of 141 deaths.   

Governor J.B. Pritzker reminded those who recently have become unemployed are eligible for health coverage through the Affordable Care Act through a special open enrollment period. Visit GetCovered.Illinois.gov.

He noted that more than 1,000 applications have been received from retired, inactive or non-practicing medical professionals who want to volunteer to help provide healthcare during the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, medical professionals can register to volunteer during an emergency at IllinoisHelps.net.

The Illinois Health Facilities and Services Review Board (HFSRB) has released guidance on how hospitals can expand their bed capacity to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. The guidance provides for an Emergency Preparedness Response Report to be filed with the Board within 30 days of the bed increase. Hospitals do not need to get pre-approval for this action.  Additionally, hospitals may also temporary suspend a facility or category of service pursuant to HFSRB rules. This action also does not require pre-approval. The full guidance, including information that must be included in the letter of submission to HFSRB can be found here. An FAQ developed by the Planning Board can be accessed here.