• University of Chicago study suggests Illinois' noncitizen healthcare programs correlate with a 15% reduction in hospital bad debt.
• The Health Benefits for Immigrant Adults (HBIA) program is slated to be cut due to state budget constraints, saving approximately $330 million.
• The study highlights a potential link between the healthcare programs and improved hospital finances, sparking debate amid program cuts.

A study from the University of Chicago suggests that Illinois' state-run health programs for noncitizens, the Health Benefits for Immigrant Adults (HBIA) and Health Benefits for Immigrant Seniors, have contributed to a significant reduction in hospital bad debt. The preliminary results indicate a possible 15% decrease in uncollectable debt since the programs' full implementation. This finding is particularly relevant as Governor JB Pritzker proposes to eliminate the HBIA program as part of his budget plan, citing financial pressures and concerns over federal reimbursements. The programs, launched during the COVID-19 pandemic, aimed to provide healthcare coverage to noncitizens ineligible for other public programs.

• What: A University of Chicago study suggests a correlation between Illinois' state-run healthcare programs for noncitizens and a reduction in hospital bad debt.
• Who: Aresha Martinez-Cardoso (University of Chicago researcher), Governor JB Pritzker, Illinois hospitals, noncitizen residents of Illinois, Illinois Auditor General
• When: Programs launched in 2020 and 2021. The study analyzed data from 2017 to 2023. Pritzker proposed cutting the HBIA program in February.
• Where: Illinois, with comparison data from Indiana and Wisconsin.

The study's findings present a complex picture regarding the financial implications of Illinois' healthcare programs for noncitizens. While the research suggests a positive impact on hospital finances through reduced bad debt, the state faces budgetary pressures that have led to proposed program cuts. The political context is also significant, with Republicans criticizing the programs and raising concerns about costs. The Auditor General's report highlighted that the program costs exceeded initial projections, adding fuel to the debate.

Our early findings show that this landmark policy isn’t just about access — it also serves as a strategic investment in our hospitals and the health of entire communities.

The University of Chicago study provides preliminary evidence suggesting that Illinois' healthcare programs for noncitizens have had a positive financial impact on hospitals. However, the future of these programs, particularly the HBIA program, is uncertain due to budget constraints and political opposition. Further analysis and monitoring are needed to fully understand the long-term effects of these programs on both healthcare access and the state's financial stability.