SPRINGFIELD, IL – Illinois State Senator Gary Forby (D–Benton) this week was recognized by the Health Care Council of Illinois (HCCI) as a "champion of senior care." Forby was presented with the award in recognition of his continued commitment to fighting for seniors in Southern Illinois.

"I am honored that the HCCI would recognize my efforts to look out for and protect seniors in my area," Senator Forby said. "Throughout my time in Springfield, I have worked hard to protect seniors and ensure they have access to quality health care."

Last year, Senator Forby sponsored sweeping reforms to the Illinois nursing home industry in an effort to improve the quality of care and ensure patients’ safety in community and home-based settings.

"Senator Forby has truly been a champion for Illinois’ most fragile and frail citizens – nursing home residents," said Pat Comstock, executive director of the Health Care Council of Illinois. "We greatly appreciate the dedication of Senator Forby in promoting their care, safety, and well-being."

The HCCI works diligently to support legislation that will benefit Illinois’ 100,000 nursing home residents and, according to their website, speaks with a strong and unified voice in representing the Illinois nursing home profession.