Quinn Creates Illinois Public Health Advocate

The State of Illinois has established a new office called Public Health Advocate.

The state already has a public health agency... but this role will go a step further... according to the Governor. He says the Advocate will improve health through education. The Advocate will also develop strategies for preventing and treating diseases.... Including asthma and diabetes. Governor Pat Quinn says another task will include making sure residents understand their health insurance options and their public health rights.

As health care has become the most expensive part of state government, Quinn says the Advocate will consider cost conscious measures.

While it's likely you've not heard about the new office until now... it's expected to become high profile in the future. The Public Health Advocate will work directly with local agencies... universities... schools and others.

The Governor used the occasion of American Diabetes month to create the office through an executive order.