MS TASK FORCE
In 2013, statewide legislation established an MS Task Force, within the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), in order to identify and address the unmet needs of persons with MS and develop ways to enhance their quality of life. The purpose of the Task Force was to develop strategies to: (1) identify and address the unmet needs of persons with MS in order to enhance the quality of life of persons with MS by maximizing productivity and independence and addressing emotional, social, financial, and vocational challenges of persons with MS; (2) provide persons with MS greater access to various treatments and other therapeutic options that may be available; and (3) improve MS education and awareness.
The Task Force was comprised of 16 members: an IDPH and Human Services Director designee, and 14 public members, appointed by the Director of Public Health, including two neurologists, licensed to practice medicine in the State; three registered nurses or other health professionals with MS certification and extensive expertise with progressed MS; one person upon the recommendation of the National MS Society; three persons who represent agencies that provide services or support to individuals with MS in this State; three persons who have MS, at least one of whom has progressive MS; and two members of the public with a demonstrated expertise in issues relating to the work of the Task Force.
The Task Force met several times over the past two years and developed this report of recommendations, which was submitted to the Governor and general assembly in Dec. 2015. Click here to view the full
Illinois MS Task Force report.