CHICAGO � Governor JB Pritzker has announced the launch of a new Remote Patient Monitoring Program and mental health support line in Illinois.
“We are living in a deeply unprecedented moment, and holding the emotional ramifications of that inside will only be harder on you. Please know that you don’t have to feel it all alone,� said Governor JB Pritzker. “My administration is here to serve you and help see you through this time of crisis � I want you to know that we’re here to help.�
According to the governor's office, the remote monitoring program will use telehealth services and Pandemic Health Worker Programs in partnership with OSF HealthCare and SIU School of Medicine
"To help see all our residents through this pandemic, the Department has contracted for these specific at-home COVID-19 supports for anyone in the state regardless of whether they are insured," said Theresa Eagleson, Director of Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services. “We’ve also significantly expanded telehealth and remote options to ensure access to health care, including addiction and mental health treatment, for our over 3 million Medicaid members.�
Pandemic Health Workers will digitally connect with members in the community who are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms and need to stay home or quarantine to protect themselves and others.
A person is eligible for the program if he or she is showing COVID-19 symptoms, or is at high risk for contracting the virus, but does not require emergency or inpatient care, and can be digitally monitored at home.
You must call the COVID-19 hotlines for a final determination of eligibility for the Pandemic Health Worker Program.
In southern and west central Illinois, the number to call is 217-545-5100. The program will be available beginning Monday. More information can be found on the .
The Illinois Department of Human Services� Mental Health Division has also launched a emotional support text line, Call4Calm, for residents experiencing stress and mental health issues related to COVID-19.
Individuals who would like to speak with a mental health professional can text “TALKâ€� to 552020, or for Spanish, “H´¡µþ³¢´¡¸éâ€� to the same number: 552020. Call4Calm is free to use, and individuals will remain anonymous.
Once a resident sends a text to the hotline, within 24 hours they will receive a call from a counselor employed by a local community mental health center to provide support.
Residents can also text key words like "unemployment" or "food" or "shelter" to the same number for information on services available.
On Saturday, the (IDPH) announced 1,293 new cases of COVID-19 in the state, including 81 additional deaths.
Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 19,180 cases, including 677 deaths, in 86 counties in Illinois.
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