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Elizabeth M. Whitehorn, Director

Provider Notice issued 09/23/2026

Stuttering Coverage

To:
 All Medical Assistance Program Providers
​Re:
 Stuttering Coverage
Date:
 September 23, 2026

This notice confirms the Department of Healthcare and Family Services’ (HFS) coverage of medically necessary habilitative services for early-acquired speech-language disorders for children under the age of 21, including stuttering, effective with dates of service on or after July 1, 2026. This coverage is required under Public Act 104-0528 and applies to the Medicaid fee-for-service (FFS) program and the HealthChoice Illinois managed care organizations (MCOs). 

This notice also confirms that stuttering coverage is already available through medically necessary rehabilitative services for this population. 

The Chapter J-200 Handbook for Providers of Therapy Services will be updated with a future publication to reflect this policy change. This change is not yet reflected in that handbook but will be included in an upcoming release.  

Questions regarding this notice may be directed to the Bureau of Professional and Ancillary Services at 877-782-5565, or the applicable MCO.

 

Laura Phelan, Administrator
Division of Medical Programs