Castro measure would make physical therapy available via telehealth

While physical therapy has traditionally required in-person care and coordination, the rise in availability of telehealth services in recent years offers potential for the field to deliver efficient, low-cost care remotely. Recognizing this potential, State Senator Cristina Castro is leading a measure to give physical therapists in Illinois the option to provide services via telehealth.

“While some people will benefit from fully in-person physical therapy, it may be more convenient for others to utilize telehealth or a mix of in-person and virtual visits,” said Castro (D-Elgin). “This measure is all about flexibility because it allows patients to work with their providers to determine the best course of treatment that works for them.”

Read more …

Castro legislation looks to strengthen workplace whistleblower protections

State Senator Cristina Castro advanced a measure to strengthen Illinois’ anti-retaliation protections for employees who raise the alarm about issues like workplace safety.

“We have to make sure every employee in our state has protections when it comes to retaliation in the workplace,” said Castro (D-Elgin). “Whistleblowers step up to keep others safe, and they ought to be protected for doing so.”

Read more …

Castro works to expand telehealth services for physical therapy

People in need of physical therapy could soon have more freedom and flexibility to choose where and how they receive care under a measure led by State Senator Cristina Castro.

“Access to physical therapy can make all the difference for someone recovering from an injury or seeking to relieve chronic pain,” said Castro (D-Elgin). “We also know that telehealth has been a game-changer, helping connect thousands of people to health care providers during and after the pandemic by making it more accessible.”

Castro’s measure would join Illinois with 23 other states that have permanently allowed physical therapists to provide telehealth services. Illinois allowed physical therapists to provide telehealth services during the COVID-19 pandemic, but the state has not passed legislation enabling them to continue this practice.

Read more …

Castro works to expand coverage for infertility treatments like IVF

Infertility treatment is notoriously expensive, and many women in Illinois struggle to afford this care. In response, State Senator Cristina Castro is leading a measure to remove this barrier and make treatments like in vitro fertilization more accessible.

“While other states restrict access to reproductive care, we are committed to remaining a safe haven where those seeking to start or grow their family can access the treatments needed to do so,” said Castro (D-Elgin). “It can be difficult to talk about this issue, but shedding a light on the struggles people face – particularly women of color – is necessary to address barriers.”

Read more …