State Senator Mary Edly-Allen introduced a new measure that would implement a mobile integrated health (MIH) care model, also known as community paramedicine, to aid those dealing with chronic illnesses who frequently depend on paramedics. Senate Bill 3599 would require all health insurance providers to provide coverage for medically necessary services provided by EMS providers operating under the MIH model starting Jan. 1, 2025. This coverage would also be applied to plans offered by the state and units of local government. The Wauconda Fire Protection District will lead a MIH pilot program this year in coordination with the Libertyville and Antioch fire departments as well as the Countryside and Greater Round Lake fire protection districts. MIH uses patient-centered, mobile resources in the out-of-hospital environment to cut costs and improve outcomes. It may include services such as providing telephone advice to 911 callers instead of resource dispatch; providing community paramedicine care, chronic disease management, preventive care or post-discharge follow-up visits; or transport or referral to a broad spectrum of appropriate care, not limited to hospital emergency rooms. Senate Bill 3599 passed the Senate Insurance Committee on Wednesday and heads to the Senate floor for further consideration.