No One Should Have to Wonder If They Can Afford Life-Saving Care

As we mark the anniversaries of Medicare and Medicaid, we should remember what these programs represent: the belief that access to healthcare can save lives.

I've seen that firsthand.

A member of my family is undocumented. After being diagnosed with cancer, they learned they also have a genetic condition that greatly increases their risk of developing several other cancers, including skin, reproductive, and colon cancer. Their future depends on regular screenings, specialist visits, and preventive care.

In 2021 and 2022, Illinois expanded the Health Benefits for Immigrant Adults (HBIA) program, allowing undocumented adults ages 42 to 64 to receive comprehensive healthcare. Because of HBIA, my family member was able to receive lifesaving cancer treatment and the follow-up care they needed.

Then that care disappeared.

Illinois began scaling back HBIA in 2023, and the program for adults ages 42 to 64 ended on June 30, 2025. Overnight, access to specialists, preventive care, and cancer surveillance was cut off. Since then, we've spent months applying for charity care, facing long delays and repeated rejections while hoping their cancer doesn't return.

No one should have to wonder whether they can afford the care that could save their life.

Medicare and Medicaid remind us that investing in healthcare strengthens families and communities. We should carry that same commitment forward by ensuring our immigrant neighbors aren't left behind.

I urge the Illinois General Assembly to restore funding for the Health Benefits for Immigrant Adults program. Everyone deserves the chance to receive preventive care, manage serious illnesses, and live with dignity.

Healthcare is a human right, regardless of where someone was born or what documents they carry.
— Angela Ballard, Homewood Illinois