Call your PCP if you need medical help. Call when you first notice a problem. Your PCP will
make an appointment or answer any questions you may have. Dealing with a problem early
may prevent a trip to the emergency room.
Your PCP may say you need special medical care. When this happens, your PCP will refer you
to a specialist. Illinois Health Connect covers healthcare you get from specialists when:
- The specialist who gives you care is enrolled with HFS as a provider, and,
- Your PCP approves of the care.
If you need help finding a specialist, call the Illinois Health
Connect Helpline at 1-877-912-1999. If you use a TTY, call 1-866-565-8577. The call is free.
In Illinois Health Connect, you NEED A REFERRAL from your PCP for the following
services by:
- Other PCPs or medical homes enrolled in IHC, with the exception of OB/GYNs
- Specialists who are also enrolled as a PCP in IHC
Remember, the services covered depend on the services you receive with your HFS or All Kids
Medical Card. To find out what services are covered for you, call the HFS Health Benefits
Hotline at 1-866-468-7543. If you use a TTY, call 1-877-204-1012. The call is free.
In Illinois Health Connect, you DO NOT NEED A REFERRAL for the following services:
- Family Planning
- OB/GYN Services
- Services to newborns up to 91 days after birth
- Emergency Room Services
- Emergency and Non-Emergency Transportation
- Prescriptions
- Dental Services
- Speech, Occupational and Physical Therapy
- Eye Exams and Services
- Immunizations (shots)
- Mental Health Services
- Drug or Alcohol Treatment
- Services to treat sexually transmitted infections
- Services to treat tuberculosis
- Early Intervention Services
- Hospital Services
- Home Healthcare
- Outpatient Ancillary Services (like X-rays, blood work, and anesthesia)
- Lead Screening
Services provided by:
- School-Based/Linked clinics for children under age 21
- Local Health Departments
- Mobile vans
- Community Health Clinic Homeless Sites and Migrant Health Centers