Illinois state Rep. Tom Demmer (R-Dixon) has been recognized by the Health Care Council of Illinois (HCCI) as a “champion of nursing home communities across the state.”
Demmer, who serves on the House’s Health Care Availability & Access Committee and the Mental Health Committee, was especially praised for his work on behalf of senior citizens, particularly those residing in skilled nursing facilities. Now in his sixth year in Springfield, Demmer was appreciative of the honor.
“State government has a responsibility to ensure that programs for Illinois residents, including those for senior citizens, run well and efficiently,” Demmer said in a press release. “I was proud to support legislative initiatives to increase support for nursing home communities across Illinois. I look forward to pursuing further reforms to make sure nursing homes are well-staffed and resourced.”
HCCI board president Daniel Weiss expressed gratitude on behalf of the organization for such programs and in particular for the dedication and leadership of those like Demmer.
“Rep. Tom Demmer is a true champion for skilled nursing facility residents,” Weiss said in the release. “Skilled nursing facility residents are often forgotten, but Rep. Demmer’s leadership this year ensured people living in skilled nursing facilities had a strong voice of support.”
Among the legislation Demmer proved instrumental in helping become law this year was a Medicaid rate increase, a bill that increases nursing staff on duty at skilled nursing facilities and a scholarship program for individuals from economically depressed areas to earn nursing degrees.
“This past session the legislature increased funding for skilled nursing facility residents with Medicaid,” said HCCI executive director Pat Comstock. “The much-needed funding will increase the quality of life for our residents who paid their taxes, raised families and helped build this great state.”
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