Contact: Kevin Kavanaugh Director of Public Affairs (773) 478-6613 kkavanaugh@nursinghome.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 21, 2007

Two State Associations Unite to Push for Public Policy Initiatives
 for Long-Term Care Profession

SPRINGFIELD -- The Illinois Council on Long Term Care (ICLTC) and Illinois Health Care Association (IHCA) have announced they will join forces to better represent the long-term care profession in Illinois. Pat Comstock, formerly IHCA Vice President of Public Policy, has been appointed Vice President of Public Policy for both the Illinois Council and IHCA, to lead the effort on legislative and regulatory initiatives on behalf of both groups.

“This new venture demonstrates the commitment by both associations to speak with one voice on behalf of the nursing home residents of Illinois. Just as we have been working together as part of the Illinois Long-Term Care Coalition, which includes Life Services Network (LSN), the third major long-term care association, we will continue to push for what is best for the elderly and disabled citizens of Illinois,” said Dave Voepel, IHCA Executive Director.

Joining Comstock and Voepel in representing IHCA are:  Phyllis Parkinson, Manager of House Issues; Matt Hartman, Manager of Senate Issues: Karen O’Beirne, Director of DD Services; Brenda Langheim, Director of Assisted Living/Geriatric Issues; and Jim Hunter, Reimbursement Manager. Representing the Illinois Council are Executive Director Terry Sullivan; Kevin Taylor, Director of Reimbursement Analysis; Susan Gardiner, Director of Clinical Services; Kevin Kavanaugh, Director of Public Affairs; and Myrtle Klauer, Director of Resident Services.

“Our mission of serving the elderly and disabled is strengthened by this joint public policy venture. Our team looks forward to working with legislators, state officials and the public on the important health care challenges ahead,” said Terry Sullivan, Executive Director of the Illinois Council.

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The Illinois Health Care Association (IHCA) is a non-profit organization comprised of more than 450 licensed and certified long-term care facilities and programs throughout the state. Founded in 1950, IHCA is the largest long-term care association in Illinois. IHCA is an affiliate of the American Health Care Association.