State Senator Neil Anderson’s (R-Andalusia) legislation that would open the door for critical funding opportunities for doctors pursuing careers practicing anesthesia is now law.

“Anesthesiologists play an essential role in ensuring safe and effective medical treatment prior to, during and after medical procedures,” said Senator Anderson. “There is currently an anesthesiologist shortage across our state and my hope is through this new law, a new door will be opened for those wanting to practice this specific type of medicine without financial barriers.”

An initiative of the Illinois Society of Anesthesiologists, Senate Bill 2130, now Public Act 103-0507 amends the Undeserved Health Care Provider Workforce Act to add anesthesiologists to the definition of an ‘eligible healthcare provider’ allowing them be become eligible for loan repayment and scholarship programs.

Formerly an ‘eligible health care provider’ meant a primary care physician, general surgeon, emergency medicine physician, obstetrician, advanced practice registered nurse, or physician assistant.

The bill was signed into law on Friday and goes into effect January 1, 2024.