Health Equity in Action

Illinois hospitals contribute $108 billion to the state economy every year, yet half of Illinois' 213 hospitals operate on negative or low operating margins. Hospitals and health systems face intense financial pressures as expenses increase. IHA's 2023 Federal Advocacy Agenda spotlights these challenges while advocating for policies that promote hospital financial stability, resiliency and transformation. Federal support of these three pillars will help strengthen hospitals as they serve communities. 

Illinois’ small and rural hospitals contribute $13.7 billion to the state economy annually and account for two of every five hospitals in the state. Nearly half of small and rural hospitals, though, operate on negative or thin margins and many are the sole providers of health-related services in their communities. Despite the challenges, these hospitals are enhancing community-based services and responding to a reduction in obstetric beds. See how in IHA’s “Advancing Rural Health” backgrounder.

Three outstanding hospital and health system leaders were honored at IHA’s 2022 Leadership Summit for their exemplary work advocating on behalf of all Illinois hospitals. Dr. James Leonard, President & CEO, Carle Health; Jim Skogsbergh, President & CEO, Advocate Aurora Health; and Dave Schreiner, President & CEO, Katherine Shaw Bethea Hospital were recognized for their work to advance Illinois healthcare. 

A third-year report on U.S. Senator Richard J. Durbin's Hospital Engagement Action and Leadership (HEAL) initiative shows how the 10 HEAL health systems are effecting positive change in the 18 HEAL neighborhoods. By partnering with neighborhood organizations, HEAL health systems are creating opportunities for individual advancement and building a better future for the communities they serve.