HB5605 Summary

• Amends the Good Samaritan Act to expand the definition of "free medical clinic" to include clinics that charge a minimal administrative fee based on individual ability to pay, and removes the reference to Volunteer Medical Reserve Corps programs.

• Extends civil liability immunity to the free clinic entity itself, in addition to individual health care professionals, for services provided without fee or compensation except in cases of willful or wanton misconduct.

• Restricts reimbursements from the Department of Public Aid to cover only overhead and administrative expenses, prohibiting use of funds to compensate any licensed physician or health care professional receiving an exemption under this section.

• Specifies that health care professionals receiving exemptions cannot receive any fee, compensation, or ownership interest in the clinic in connection with services provided.

• Permits free medical clinics to accept voluntary patient contributions, which must be used solely for overhead and administrative expenses, not to compensate licensed physicians under the Medical Practice Act.