Cook County erases $665M in medical debt for over half a million residents
Cook County launched a Medical Debt Relief Initiative in 2022 using $9 million in COVID-19 funds.
The program has erased $665 million in medical debt for over 550,000 residents through a partnership with Undue Medical Debt.
Officials say the relief reduces financial stress and encourages people to return for preventive and emergency care.
COOK COUNTY - Getting sick is hard enough — but the medical bills that follow can be just as painful. Which is why years ago, Cook County created a program to help people tackle medical debt.
What we know
On Thursday, Cook County board President Toni Preckwinkle touted its success.
"We're stepping in where the system has failed and where families would otherwise be left to shoulder these costs alone," Preckwinkle said.
Cook County leaders provided an update on the Medical Debt Relief Initiative, which was launched by the county in 2022 using $9 million in COVID funds.
The county partners with a company called Undue Medical Debt, which buys up old and uncollectible bills from hospitals and health centers for a fraction of the price--then forgives that debt.
Preckwinkle said since the program started, the county has erased $665 million in medical debt carried by more than 550,000 Cook County residents.
To qualify for debt relief, you must have an income no more than four times the poverty level, or have medical debt that's 5% or more of your annual income.
Nationwide, more than 20 million Americans carry some amount of medical debt, making it one of the leading causes of bankruptcy in the United States.
The company that buys up the uncollected debt for Cook County said they've heard from hundreds of people who have been surprised to get a letter in the mail saying they're debt-free.
"It's a mental weight that's been lifted from them. That the burden of owing that medical bill is no longer there," said Undue Medical Debt Vice President Courtney Werpy Story. "We've also heard both from our constituents as well as hospitals that those whose medical debt is forgiven tend to return to care. They're less afraid of going back to the doctor or hospital system to receive either preventative or emergency care as well."
What's next
Preckwinkle said when the federal money runs out next year, Cook County will consider funding the debt relief initiative on its own.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
an hour ago
- Yahoo
Spine Surgeon: These Uncommon Exercises Will Fix Neck and Upper-Back Pain for Men Over 40
Spine Surgeon: These Uncommon Exercises Will Fix Neck and Upper-Back Pain for Men Over 40 originally appeared on Men's Fitness. Getting older means more wisdom, along with a whole lot more neck and upper-back pain. Nicholas Clark, M.D., an orthopedic spine surgeon for HSS at NCH, says that while many guys prioritize building their chest, arms, or legs, they often ignore the muscles in the neck and upper back—leaving them prone to pain and limited movement. "The neck and trapezius muscles are your body's unsung heroes, stabilizing your head and shoulders during every lift, run or even desk session. Neglecting them can lead to chronic pain, reduced mobility and even spinal issues down the line," Clark tells Men's Fitness. In his work as a spine surgeon, he's treated countless men in their 40s and 50s dealing with chronic neck and trap pain—issues that could often be prevented or improved with the right exercises. Below, Clark shares four underrated exercises—ones you've probably never done—that target the neck and traps to help reduce pain, improve posture, and keep you strong and mobile well into middle and Trapezius Exercises for Pain Relief Directions "Start with two to three sessions per week, and pair them with your existing routine. Over time, you'll notice less stiffness, better posture and a stronger, more balanced upper body," Clark says. Cervical Retraction with Resistance Band Sets: 3 Reps: 12-15 How to do it: Anchor a light resistance band to a sturdy object at chest height. Hold the band with both hands, standing about 2 feet away, and keep your arms relaxed. Gently tuck your chin toward your neck (think of making a double chin) while pulling the band slightly toward your face, keeping your head level. Hold for 3 seconds, then release. Tip: Focus on keeping your shoulders relaxed to avoid tensing the traps. If you feel strain, use a lighter band or no band at all until you master the movement. By 40, many men develop forward flex head posture from the impacts of daily life—like prolonged sitting or smartphone use. In turn, this strains the cervical spine and trapezius. "This exercise strengthens the deep neck flexors and posterior neck muscles, counteracting that slouch while relieving tension in the upper traps," Clark says. Scapular Wall Slides Sets: 2-3 Reps: 10-12 How to do it: Stand with your back against a wall, feet about 6 inches away. Press your lower back, upper back, and head lightly against the wall. Bend your elbows to 90 degrees, with your forearms and hands touching the wall (like a 'W' shape). Slowly slide your arms upward to form a 'Y,' keeping your elbows, forearms, and hands in contact with the wall. Lower back to the starting position. Tip: If your arms don't reach the 'Y' position without losing wall contact, don't force it. Work within your range and progress as mobility improves. "Tight traps often stem from poor scapular mobility, which is common in men who lift weights or sit for long periods. This exercise improves scapular movement and strengthens the lower trapezius, reducing upper trap dominance and neck strain," he says. Prone Trapezius Raise Sets: 3 Reps: 12-15 How to do it: Lie facedown on a bench or the floor with a light dumbbell (2–5 pounds) in each hand. Let your arms hang straight down, palms facing each other. Keeping your arms straight, lift them out to the sides to form a 'T,' squeezing your shoulder blades together. Your thumbs should point upward at the top of the movement. Lower slowly. Tip: If you feel your upper traps taking over, reduce the weight or do the exercise without weights. Focus on initiating the movement from your mid-back. "The middle and lower trapezius muscles are critical for stabilizing the shoulder blades and supporting the neck, but they're often neglected in favor of upper trap-focused exercises like shrugs. This move isolates the mid and lower traps, reducing neck stiffness and improving posture," Clark explains. Isometric Neck Bridge Sets: 2 Reps: 10-12 How to do it: Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Place a folded towel (about 2 inches thick) under your head for slight elevation. Gently press the back of your head into the towel, engaging your neck muscles without lifting your head. Hold for 5 to 10 seconds, then relax. Tip: To target the traps more, slightly shrug your shoulders toward your ears during the hold, but keep the movement subtle to avoid strain. "Unlike traditional neck bridges used by wrestlers, this gentler isometric version builds neck stability without excessive strain, making it ideal for men over 40. It strengthens the cervical muscles and traps, improving resilience against daily stressors like heavy lifting or poor posture," he Surgeon: These Uncommon Exercises Will Fix Neck and Upper-Back Pain for Men Over 40 first appeared on Men's Fitness on Jul 20, 2025 This story was originally reported by Men's Fitness on Jul 20, 2025, where it first appeared. Solve the daily Crossword
Yahoo
an hour ago
- Yahoo
Over 40? These Daily Mobility Drills Will Help You Move Like You're 30 Again
Over 40? These Daily Mobility Drills Will Help You Move Like You're 30 Again originally appeared on Men's Fitness. Entering your 40s comes with an entire new set of rules for self-care. Protecting your mobility should be at the top of the list in order to support an active, pain-free, and independent lifestyle. Movement already begins to decline at this stage due to natural changes in your joints, muscles, and connective tissues. Incorporating just the right exercises in your workout regimen will help you remain flexible, avoid stiffness, and limit injuries. We spoke to the experts and are here with eight daily mobility drills to help you move like you're 10 years Mobility is Important 'Aging is inevitable, even when you are active,' says Amani Taylor, physical therapist, DPT at FYZICAL Affton. 'Some reasons for a decline in mobility include stiffening of tendons and joint capsules and changes in muscle, collagen, cartilage, and connective tissue. A decline in mobility can make it difficult to maintain strength, balance, and endurance needed to carry out daily activities leading to loss of independence, decreased quality of life, and hospitalization.' Even active individuals—weightlifters and runners alike—can experience mobility decline if they're not regularly weaving mobility, strength, and recovery drills into their routine. 'Over time, that tightness can sneak into everyday movement, really taking a toll on the ego, making things like bending down, twisting, or reaching overhead feel more restricted or uncomfortable,' says Phillip Solomon, C.P.T, Barry's Bootcamp coach, and breakout star from NBC's Deal or No Deal Island. According to Solomon, the spine, shoulders, and hips are typically the first parts of the body to stiffen as you age. This is especially true if you lead a more sedentary lifestyle. 'Daily mobility drills keep those joints functional, help muscles stay elastic, and teach the body to move well through full ranges of motion so stiffness is not the 'new normal,'' Solomon adds. This is why we asked Taylor and Solomon to share essential mobility drills that will help you move like you're 30 at 40. Keep in mind that just 10 to 15 minutes of mobility training can make a major difference in your efforts, Solomon notes. Consistency is key. Simply sprinkle in some of these movements before or after working out. You can even do them while relaxing in front of the TV! Every little bit counts. The Best Mobility Drills for Guys Over 40 1. Shoulder Flossing Shoulder flossing can be incredibly beneficial to stretch and relax your shoulders. This movement also alleviates tension in the pecs and reduces compression in the neck. Start standing tall with your core engaged and feet shoulder-width apart. Hold a long towel or yoga strap with both hands, shoulder-width apart. Take a deep breath in as you lift both hands overhead. Exhale and slowly lower your hands to the back of your neck, keeping solid tension in the strap/towel. Inhale and lift your arms overhead. Exhale as you lower your arms to the start position. Complete 10 reps. 2. Cat-Cow Spine Roll '[This drill] restores spinal fluidity and gently wakes up the whole back,' says Solomon. Begin in a tabletop position. Take a deep breath in as you arch your back and lift your chest for cow pose. Breathe out as you round your spine and tuck your chin for cat pose. Keep the movement smooth, flowing with your breath for 8 to 10 reps. 3. World's Greatest Stretch (Lunge With Reach) The world's greatest stretch fires up the spine, shoulders, hips, and hamstrings. Begin standing tall. Step one foot forward into a long lunge. Place both hands inside your front foot. Lower your back knee, if necessary. Reach the same-side hand as your front leg up toward the sky while smoothly rotating through your spine. Hold the position for a moment. Switch sides. Perform 5 reps on each side. 4. Deep Squat Hold '[The deep squat hold] restores ankle, hip, and low back mobility while calming the nervous system,' Solomon notes. Stand tall with your feet planted shoulder-width apart. Bend your knees and hinge at the hips to lower into a deep squat. Make sure your heels stay down and your chest remains tall. Hold the deep squat for 30 to 60 seconds, using your elbows to press your knees apart if it feels comfortable. 5. Ankle Rocks '[This drill] restores ankle mobility, which improves squatting, walking, and balance,' Solomon explains. Assume a half-kneeling position with your front foot flat. Smoothly drive your front knee forward over your toes without allowing your heel to lift off the ground. Rock in and out of the stretch, completing 10 to 15 reps on each side. 6. Scapular Wall Slides '[Scapular wall slides] help your shoulders move freely and build stability around the shoulder blades,' says Solomon. Stand tall with your back pressed against a wall and your arms assuming a goal post position. Slide both arms overhead as far as you're able to while keeping your back and arms in contact with the surface. Slowly return to the goal post position. Complete 10 to 12 controlled reps. 7. Thread the Needle Thread the needle helps alleviate tension in the neck, back, and shoulders while boosting mobility in the spine and ribs. Begin on all fours with your wrists below your shoulders and knees under your hips. Inhale, shift your weight onto your right hand, and lift your left hand to the ceiling. Breathe out and reach your left hand through the space between your right knee and right arm. Lower your left shoulder to the floor. Engage your core and inhale as you raise your left shoulder. Raise your left hand toward the sky again and exhale. Perform 5 reps per side. 8. Forward Fold to Yogi Squat This combo drill improves mobility by strengthening and stretching your core and lower body. Stand tall with your feet outside hip-width, pointing outward. Inhale as you reach your hands overhead and activate your core. Exhale, hinge at the hips, and reach your hands toward the floor or your thighs while keeping your back flat. Inhale in the forward fold position. Exhale as you bend at the hips and knees until you're in a deep yogi squat. Inhale in the squat position. Exhale as you press through your feet to extend your legs and return to the forward fold. Complete 5 40? These Daily Mobility Drills Will Help You Move Like You're 30 Again first appeared on Men's Fitness on Jul 15, 2025 This story was originally reported by Men's Fitness on Jul 15, 2025, where it first appeared. Solve the daily Crossword
Yahoo
an hour ago
- Yahoo
Orthopedic Surgeon is Begging Men Over 40 to Strengthen These Neglected Muscles to Eliminate Chronic Neck and Upper-Back Pain
Orthopedic Surgeon is Begging Men Over 40 to Strengthen These Neglected Muscles to Eliminate Chronic Neck and Upper-Back Pain originally appeared on Men's Fitness. Eric Mancini, M.D., is an orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine for HHS at NCH. As a shoulder surgeon, he frequently treats men in their 40s and 50s suffering from chronic neck, trapezius, and shoulder pain. Sound familiar? "The shoulders region is integral to nearly every physical activity from lifting weights and playing sports like golf or tennis, to running or simply working at a computer. When left unaddressed, muscle imbalances and poor mechanics in this area can lead to chronic pain, functional limitations, and long-term joint degeneration," Mancini tells Men's Fitness. Luckily, these conditions are often preventable through focused, preventative exercises, which Mancini shared with Men's Fitness. Sure, they may not be the exercises you're used to—like shoulder presses or dumbbell rows—but these are specifically designed to strengthen the shoulder complex, enhance posture, and improve mobility. "The advantage of these exercises is their simplicity and accessibility. They are low-impact, require minimal equipment, and can be performed at home, in the gym, or even during breaks at the office. Aim to incorporate them two to three times per week alongside your regular fitness regimen," he the Rotator Cuff "Men over 40 are particularly susceptible to rotator cuff tendinitis and subacromial bursitis, especially from repetitive overhead activity. Targeted strengthening of the rotator cuff muscles improves shoulder biomechanics and reduces inflammation in the subacromial space. Focus on light resistance and higher repetitions to build endurance and control," Mancini says. Supraspinatus Activation Sets: 3 Reps: 12-15 in each direction How to do it: Anchor a light resistance band under your foot while standing. With your arm straight, raise it to 90 degrees in front of you, hold for 3 seconds, and lower. Repeat the motion to the side. Internal and External Rotation Sets: 3 Reps: 12-15 for each movement How to do it: Attach a resistance band to a doorknob. Standing sideways to the door with your elbow bent at 90 degrees, pull the band inward toward your abdomen (internal rotation), hold for 3 seconds, then release. Turn to face the opposite direction and pull the band outward from your abdomen (external rotation), hold for 3 seconds, and release. Tip: Avoid raising your arm above 90 degrees, as this may aggravate the shoulder joint and increase pain. Strengthen the Periscapular Muscle "The scapula serves as the foundation for healthy shoulder movement and is connected to 17 different muscles. Weakness in the periscapular muscles can disrupt scapular motion, contributing to shoulder strain particularly in individuals who lift weights or spend extended time at a desk," he explains. Banded Rows Sets: 3 Reps: 10-12 How to do it: Use a light resistance band to perform controlled rows while actively squeezing the shoulder blades together. Seated Shoulder Retraction Sets: 3 Reps: 10 How to do it: Alternatively, while seated at your desk, sit upright and retract your shoulder blades. Hold for 10 seconds. Tip: Emphasize slow, controlled movements and maintain proper scapular alignment to reinforce good posture throughout your daily routine. Stretch the Pectoralis Major "Tight pectoral muscles are common in men who engage in weight training or sit for prolonged periods. This tightness pulls the shoulders forward, leading to postural dysfunction and upper back tension," Mancini says. "Stretching the pectoral muscles can help restore natural shoulder alignment and relieve anterior shoulder and biceps strain." Doorway Pectoral Stretch Sets: 1 Reps: 10 How to do it: Stand in a doorway with both arms bent at 90 degrees, palms flat against the frame. Lean forward slowly until you feel a stretch across the chest. Hold the stretch for 30 seconds. Tip: For additional myofascial release, use a lacrosse or massage ball. Press the ball against the wall with your chest and roll it gently across the muscle, applying pressure as Surgeon is Begging Men Over 40 to Strengthen These Neglected Muscles to Eliminate Chronic Neck and Upper-Back Pain first appeared on Men's Fitness on Jul 27, 2025 This story was originally reported by Men's Fitness on Jul 27, 2025, where it first appeared. Solve the daily Crossword
