Tom Cullerton passes measure help individuals with disabilities

SPRINGFIELD –Medical professionals may soon have access to training to help ensure individuals with developmental disabilities are as comfortable as possible, thanks to State Senator Tom Cullerton.

Cullerton (D-Villa Park) passed Senate Bill 1214 last week, which requires the Department of Public Health to ensure that those who draw blood employ the most current methods available when treating individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

“Medical visits can be stressful for all of us, but especially for people with developmental disabilities,” Cullerton said. “We need to ensure that communication and sensory issues are taken into account when medical professionals complete procedures such as blood draws.”

Senate Bill 1214 was an initiative of Michael Baker, the parent a young adult son with autism.

“I would like to thank Senator Tom Cullerton for taking up this legislation in the Senate and listening to the healthcare needs of my son with autism,” Baker said. “I hope that this legislation to improve training and equipping of healthcare professionals on how to draw blood from all children and adults with developmental disabilities in a safe and comfortable manner, will lead to more progress in the quality of healthcare for people like my son.”

Senate Bill 1214 passed the Senate with bipartisan support and will move to the House for consideration.