Analysis of Medicaid programs in each state in the U.S. ranked Illinois a few spots below the middle, based on criteria like how the state has expanded the program’s scope and spending growth.
The Heartland Institute, a self-described nonprofit think tank focused on “free-market solutions to social and economic problems,” produced an evaluation of each state’s Medicaid program, ranking Illinois’ program implementation 31st.
Jack McPherrin, a senior policy analyst and research fellow with the institute, co-authored the report, which he said focuses on the structure, integrity and fiscal sustainability of state-implemented Medicaid programs.
McPherrin said the middling score is due to a combination of aspects ranging from implementation and program expansion to fiscal sustainability.
The state spent about $43.17 billion during the 2026 fiscal year that ended July 31. Spending was up $6.11 billion from FY 2024, according to state comptroller data.
For every dollar spent by the state on Medicaid, the federal government reimburses about 51%.
Illinois tied Indiana in overall score, while Iowa ranked well ahead.
Story from Illinois Radio Network
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