IHA Healthcare News

Get the healthcare news you need to stay on top of legislative proposals, industry trends and local issues. This section has news articles, IHA's Daily Briefing, IHA press releases and our Member News Spotlight. You can sort by category.

Featured News

Coronavirus wreaks havoc on Illinois' state revenues, but pot is a bright spot

On paper, Illinois' fiscal year that began last month looks to be off to a terrific start, taking in more than $5.5 billion. Daily Herald

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Coronavirus wreaks havoc on Illinois' state revenues, but pot is a bright spot

News Articles

  • Aug 07, 2020
  • News from the Web

Report: progressive income tax hits women and minorities hardest, 'Fair Tax' group disagrees

A progressive income tax will disproportionately affect women and minorities and shrink Illinois’ economy by nearly $2 billion. The Center Square

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  • Aug 07, 2020
  • News from the Web

Pritzker set to announce new guidelines to help prevent spread of COVID-19

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker is set to announce new guidelines to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. The governor is scheduled to speak at 9:30 a.m. on Friday from Chicago. WSIL TV

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  • Aug 07, 2020
  • News from the Web

Coronavirus cases in Illinois hit highest single-day increase since May for second time in a week

Illinois health officials said testing confirmed nearly 2,000 new cases of COVID-19 over the past day Thursday, reporting the biggest single-day increase since late May. WGN TV

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  • Aug 07, 2020
  • News from the Web

Health director hopes rash of new virus cases a ’reality check’

With 46 more cases of COVID-19 reported in Sangamon County on Thur and most of the infected people younger than 4 the county’s public health director hopes reality check is setting in. SJR

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  • Aug 07, 2020
  • News from the Web

COVID keeps spreading, so some southwest IL cities could fine you for not wearing mask

Leaders in some metro-east communities are discussing the possibility of punishing residents who do not wear face masks as coronavirus spread continues in the region. Belleville News

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  • Aug 07, 2020
  • News from the Web

Birx warns of uptick in coronavirus cases in 9 cities

White House coronavirus task force coordinator Deborah Birx is warning of an uptick in coronavirus cases in nine U.S. cities [including Chicago]. The Hill

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  • Aug 07, 2020
  • News from the Web

Coronavirus model projects U.S. death toll could hit 300,000 by December

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis on Thursday continued his push to not only resume classes on campus but also to start youth sports again, something other states have delayed. CBS News

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  • Aug 07, 2020
  • News from the Web

The Unique U.S. Failure to Control the Virus

Nearly every country has struggled to contain the coronavirus and made mistakes along the way. New York Times

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  • Aug 07, 2020
  • News from the Web

Virus keeps spreading as schools begin to open, frightening parents and alarming public health

Even before President Trump admonished his top coronavirus adviser for saying the country was entering a "new phase" of widespread infection... Washington Post

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  • Aug 07, 2020
  • News from the Web

Test Sites Quickly Attract Thousands for COVID-19 Vaccine Study

Dr. Eric Coe jumped at the chance to help test a COVID-19 vaccine. At his urging, so did his girlfriend, his son and his daughter-in-law. Kaiser Health News

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  • Aug 07, 2020
  • News from the Web

U of Chicago Medicine lands 2-year, $20M federal contract for COVID-19 medical imaging database

University of Chicago Medicine will be home to a new, massive database of medical images from COVID-19 patients that researchers can use to better understand and fight the illness. Chicago Trib

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  • Aug 07, 2020
  • News from the Web

Coronavirus talks on life support

Congressional leaders and White House officials emerged from a three-hour meeting last night still miles apart over the price tag and policy details. Politico

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  • Aug 07, 2020
  • News from the Web

Economy adds 1.8 million jobs for July as coronavirus surge slows recovery

The U.S. gained 1.8 million jobs in July as rising coronavirus cases across much of the country hindered the economic rebound from the first wave of the pandemic. The Hill

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  • Aug 07, 2020
  • News from the Web

Major U.S. Health Insurers Report Big Profits, Benefiting From the Pandemic

Some of the largest companies, including Anthem, Humana and UnitedHealth Group, are reporting second-quarter earnings that are double what they were a year ago. New York Times

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  • Aug 07, 2020
  • News from the Web

Hospitals 'encouraged' by CMS proposal to overhaul star ratings

CMS proposed this week a new methodology for its hospital quality star ratings and stakeholders are cautiously optimistic. Modern Healthcare

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  • Aug 07, 2020
  • News from the Web

Jersey Community Hospital Announces New CEO

After reviewing more than 60 resumes from across the nation, the Jersey Community Hospital Board of Directors announces Beth King as the next chief executive officer. River Bender

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  • Aug 07, 2020
  • Daily Briefing

IHA Daily Briefing: Aug. 7

Governor Pushes for Face Mask Compliance

Read More About IHA Daily Briefing: Aug. 7
  • Aug 06, 2020
  • Daily Briefing

IHA Daily Briefing: Aug. 6

CMS Proposes Including MA Days in Medicare DPP

Read More About IHA Daily Briefing: Aug. 6
  • Aug 06, 2020
  • News from the Web

A lesson from hospital workers and two hair stylists: Wear the mask and we’ll all be safer

As we begin to see another uptick in the number of patients hospitalized with COVID-19, I’d like to share some of what we’ve learned at Edward-Elmhurst Health in the past 6 mth. Sun-Times Ltr to Edtr

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  • Aug 06, 2020
  • News from the Web

The Winter Will Be Worse

Throughout the pandemic, one lodestar of public-health advice has come down to three words: Do things outside. The Atlantic

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  • Aug 06, 2020
  • News from the Web

CDC warns against ingesting hand sanitizer after reports of poisonings, deaths

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a health warning against the ingestion of alcohol-based hand sanitizer products following reports of poisonings in the U.S. The Hill

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  • Aug 06, 2020
  • News from the Web

CDC expects 2020 outbreak of life-threatening AFM in children

The CDC and Prevention issued a call to action to warn of potential outbreak between the end of this summer and winter of a rare, but potentially lethal disease that affects young children. ABC News

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  • Aug 06, 2020
  • News from the Web

Telemedicine is booming — but many people still face huge barriers to virtual care

As Covid-19 drives many patients away from in-person care and toward virtual visits, experts warn that the nation’s most vulnerable members may be shut out of the booming telehealth business. Stat

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  • Aug 06, 2020
  • News from the Web

In a snub to Trump, Obama’s Medicaid expansion keeps gaining ground

President Trump is still trying to overturn Obamacare, but his predecessor’s landmark healthcare law keeps gaining ground in places where it was once unwelcome. AP

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  • Aug 06, 2020
  • News from the Web

Chicago nurses join national day of action over PPE, federal assistance

Joining hundreds of protests by unionized nurses across the country, nurses marched at two Chicago hospitals Wed. to demand full PPE in their facilities and federal assistance. Chicago Tribune

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  • Aug 06, 2020
  • News from the Web

Chicago Public Schools to Begin School Year With Full Remote Learning

Chicago Public Schools will begin the school year in the fall with fully remote learning as the coronavirus pandemic continues, the district announced Wednesday. NBC 5 TV

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  • Aug 06, 2020
  • News from the Web

Rep. Rodney Davis diagnosed with Covid days after warning lawmakers about safety

Days after delivering a presentation on office safety dealing with Covid-19, IL Congressman Rodney Davis, a top Republican, announced he has tested positive for the virus. Politico

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  • Aug 06, 2020
  • News from the Web

State legislator raises questions about COVID-19 overflow hospital in his district

A state lawmaker is demanding legislative hearings after being kept in the dark about the status of a vacant hospital in his district. Center Square

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  • Aug 06, 2020
  • News from the Web

COVID-19 hospitalizations increase to highest level since July 1

More people were hospitalized for COVID-19 infections by the end of the day Tuesday than the state had seen since July 1. Daily Herald

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  • Aug 06, 2020
  • News from the Web

Pritzker: New stay-at-home order possible if local leaders don't take action against COVID-19

Gov. JB Pritzker said more serious mitigation measures against COVID-19, including a new stay-at-home order in an extreme case, could be possible if virus statistics don't improve in Illinois. WAND TV

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  • Aug 06, 2020
  • News from the Web

New data portal aims to track, analyze Chicago’s Covid-19 cases

A group of tech and health care organizations have launched a data platform to track and monitor how Covid-19 is affecting Chicagoans. Chicago Inno

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  • Aug 06, 2020
  • News from the Web

Health Care Workers of Color Nearly Twice as Likely as Whites to Get COVID-19

Health care workers of color were more likely to care for patients with suspected or confirmed COVID-19, more likely to report using inadequate or reused protective gear. Kaiser Health News

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  • Aug 05, 2020
  • Daily Briefing

IHA Daily Briefing: Aug. 5

Ask Congress to Include Hospital Priorities in COVID Package

Read More About IHA Daily Briefing: Aug. 5
  • Aug 05, 2020
  • News from the Web

Mendoza warns of dangers ahead for Illinois budget

 Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza is adding her voice to those warning that the state will face dire financial consequences without federal support. Capitol News Illinois

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  • Aug 05, 2020
  • News from the Web

Orland Park dealt setback in lawsuit challenging COVID-19 restrictions

Orland Park elected officials have been dealt a serious setback in a lawsuit filed in June challenging Gov. Pritzker’s restrictions put in place in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Chicago Tribune

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  • Aug 05, 2020
  • News from the Web

State House GOP leader says Pritzker overextending his executive authority in dealing with pandemic

Illinois House Republican leader Jim Durkin said Tuesday that Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker has dealt with the pandemic as “well as anybody” but has “overextended himself”. Chicago Tribune

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  • Aug 05, 2020
  • News from the Web

Illinois has 1,471 new COVID-19 cases; Pritzker warns about campus parties after SIU outbreak

The state reported 1,471 new COVID-19 cases Tuesday and 19 new deaths as Gov. Pritzker warned college students to curtail parties after a localized surge in cases related to SIU. Daily Herald

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  • Aug 05, 2020
  • News from the Web

Gov. Pritzker visits SIUC, talks COVID-19

"I'm here today because the COVID-19 pandemic, which once seemed tame in Carbondale and throughout the entire region, is surging here. It's worse than in Chicago. WSIL TV

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  • Aug 05, 2020
  • News from the Web

Death toll expected to spike following Illinois’ rise in coronavirus cases

As Gov. J.B. Pritzker and health officials sound the alarm on a rise in coronavirus cases. Chicago Sun-Times

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  • Aug 05, 2020
  • News from the Web

Pritzker says U. of I.’s COVID-19 saliva test could be made more widely available

Gov. Pritzker said his administration is in talks with University of Illinois officials about making a saliva test researchers have developed for use on campus widely available in Illinois. Peoria J-S

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  • Aug 05, 2020
  • News from the Web

J&J to receive $1 billion in U.S. funding to make 100 million doses of its COVID-19 vaccine

Shares of Johnson & Johnson Wednesday said it will receive more than $1 billion from the U.S. government to manufacture 100 million doses of its investigational COVID-19 vaccine. CNBC

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  • Aug 05, 2020
  • News from the Web

After 'Severe' Delays, 6 States Band Together To Buy Coronavirus Tests

Six states led by a bipartisan group of governors are joining together in an effort to speed up coronavirus testing. NPR

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  • Aug 05, 2020
  • News from the Web

Chicago quarantine: Puerto Rico added to COVID-19 travel order

Chicago has added Puerto Rico to its its COVID-19 travel quarantine order on Tuesday. The move came over concern about the rising number of cases in Puerto Rico. ABC 7 TV

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  • Aug 05, 2020
  • News from the Web

Medicaid enrollment is climbing, but not because of newly uninsured

The COVID-19 pandemic has stripped millions of people of their jobs and health insurance. So far, those newly uninsured have yet to enroll in Medicaid. Modern Healthcare

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  • Aug 05, 2020
  • News from the Web

Missouri voters narrowly approve Medicaid expansion

Ignoring pleas from Republican leaders, Missouri voters approved a plan Tuesday to expand Medicaid coverage to more than 230,000 low-income people in the state. St Louis Post-Dispatch

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  • Aug 05, 2020
  • News from the Web

Clorox won't have enough disinfecting wipes until 2021, its CEO says

While California-based Clorox typically holds aside excess supply for flu seasons, it says it has been unable to keep up with a six-fold increase in demand for many of its disinfectants. Reuters

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  • Aug 05, 2020
  • News from the Web

Chicago Public Schools will go fully remote to start the fall

Chicago Public Schools students will start the new school year at home next month as officials plan to announce as soon as Wednesday.  Chicago Sun-Times

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  • Aug 05, 2020
  • News from the Web

County working on plan to reverse rise in Black suicides

After seeing a spike in suicides in an African-American community already devastated by COVID-19 and other tragedies, Cook County officials said they’re working on a prevention plan.Chicago Sun-Times

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  • Aug 04, 2020
  • Daily Briefing

IHA Daily Briefing: Aug. 4

CMS Releases CY2021 OPPS Proposed Rule

Read More About IHA Daily Briefing: Aug. 4
  • Aug 04, 2020
  • News from the Web

Pritzker warns of deep cuts without federal economic aid

Gov. Pritzker said Monday Illinois faces the prospect of having to make deep spending cuts over the rest of the fiscal year if Congress does not pass an economic relief package. State Journal-Register

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  • Aug 04, 2020
  • News from the Web

Three new mental health programs coming to Illinois

The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) announced on Monday three new mental health programs designed to provide additional support for Illinois residents. KHQA TV

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  • Aug 04, 2020
  • News from the Web

State launches mask campaign as 1,298 more infected with COVID-19

As COVID-19 cases in Illinois peaked in early May, downstate residents made up an average of 10% of the new cases each day. Daily Herald

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  • Aug 04, 2020
  • News from the Web

Pritzker launches $5M wear a mask campaign

With COVID-19 cases on the rise, Illinois will launch a new $5 million ad campaign to once again try to convince people to wear masks in public. State Journal-Register

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  • Aug 04, 2020
  • News from the Web

New Coronavirus Restrictions For Cook County Bars, Health Clubs

New health guidance has been issued for bars, fitness clubs, personal care businesses and other gathering places. Patch

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  • Aug 04, 2020
  • News from the Web

New rural hot spots are ICU bed deserts, study finds

More than half all rural low-income communities in the U.S. have zero ICU beds, forcing local hospitals to rely on transfers to wealthier communities for their sickest coronavirus patients. Politico

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  • Aug 04, 2020
  • News from the Web

U.S. lacks plan for getting vaccine to communities of color devastated by virus

The US is mounting the largest vaccination effort in history without a plan on how to reach racial and ethnic groups that have not only been devastated by the virus but are often skeptical. Politico

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  • Aug 04, 2020
  • News from the Web

In search for COVID-19 treatments, consumer group pushes drugmaker Gilead to test alternative

The pharmaceutical company that makes remdesivir the only medication that has emergency authorization to fight COVID-19 should also be conducting human trials on a related drug. Chicago Trib

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  • Aug 04, 2020
  • News from the Web

Trump extends National Guard virus mission through 2020 but cuts federal funds by quarter

President Donald Trump has extended the federal deployment of nearly 25,000 National Guard members detailed to coronavirus relief efforts until the end of 2020. Politico

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  • Aug 04, 2020
  • News from the Web

Trump Signs Order to Expand Access to Telehealth Services in Rural Areas

U.S. President Donald Trump on Monday signed an executive order expanding access to telehealth services for 57 million Americans in under-served rural areas and elsewhere. Reuters

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  • Aug 04, 2020
  • News from the Web

Census Bureau will finish count earlier than expected, deliver data to Trump

The Census Bureau said late on Monday that it would finish collecting data for the decennial count next month and work to deliver population tallies to President Donald Trump. Politico

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  • Aug 03, 2020
  • Daily Briefing

IHA Daily Briefing: Aug. 3

CMS Final FFY2021 Payment Rules for IPF, SNF, Hospice

Read More About IHA Daily Briefing: Aug. 3
  • Aug 03, 2020
  • News from the Web

Commentary: I’m part of Gen Z. This is why young people are disregarding COVID-19 precautions.

My generation, a leader in sustainability and inclusivity, is failing extraordinarily when it comes to the coronavirus. Chicago Tribune

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  • Aug 03, 2020
  • News from the Web

Congress to resume talks on COVID-19 relief package

Slow, grinding negotiations on a huge COVID-19 relief bill are set to resume, but the path forward promises to be challenging. Chicago Tribune

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  • Aug 03, 2020
  • News from the Web

HHS wants surprise-billing fix in stimulus plan, but hospitals say no

HHS signaled that it wants legislation to address surprise medical billing in the next COVID-19 relief package, but hospitals are urging Congress to leave the proposals out. Becker's Hosp Review

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  • Aug 03, 2020
  • News from the Web

Appeals court upholds nearly 30% payment cut to 340B hospitals

A federal appeals court has ruled the Trump administration can install nearly 30% cuts to the 340B drug discount program. Fierce Healthcare

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  • Aug 03, 2020
  • News from the Web

Chicago sees 139% jump in murders, uptick in shootings in July 2020: police

Murders more than doubled last month in Chicago compared to the same month last year, according to new data released by Chicago police. Shootings also increased compared July 2019. Sun-Tims

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  • Aug 03, 2020
  • News from the Web

Birx warns US is 'in a new phase' of coronavirus pandemic with more widespread cases

"What we are seeing today is different from March and April. It is extraordinarily widespread. It's into the rural as equal urban areas. CNN

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  • Aug 03, 2020
  • News from the Web

Children May Carry 10 to 100 Times More of Coronavirus Than Adults: Lurie Children's Study

While some research shows that children are infected with the coronavirus at a lower rate than adults, new Chicago-based study raises questions about the role children have spread the virus. NBC 5 TV

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  • Aug 03, 2020
  • News from the Web

Illinois Lab Has Backlog Of Nearly 4,000 COVID Tests: Officials

The Illinois Department of Public Health says as many as 3,800 coronavirus test results all linked to one lab have been delayed beyond what officials say is appropriate. WBBM Radio

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  • Aug 03, 2020
  • News from the Web

Hang-ups, lies and wrong numbers: Contact tracers’ uphill fight against COVID-19

A woman in Little Village sobs after learning she is the latest member of her family to test positive for COVID-19. She fears she won’t be able to take care of her grandson. Chicago Sun-Times

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  • Aug 03, 2020
  • News from the Web

Lost on the frontline: These Chicago, suburban health workers lost their lives to COVID-19

America’s health care workers are dying. In some states, medical personnel account for as many as 20% of known coronavirus cases. Chicago Sun-Times

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  • Aug 03, 2020
  • News from the Web

Some hospitals are tracking Covid-19 by adding sensors to employees’ badges

Around 50 hospitals today use a technology from a company called SwipeSense to monitor whether medical staff are washing their hands when they enter and exit patient rooms. CNBC

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  • Aug 03, 2020
  • News from the Web

Fauci Unfazed as Scientists Rely on Unproven Methods to Create COVID Vaccines

With millions of lives on the line, researchers have been working at an unprecedented pace to develop a COVID-19 vaccine. Kaiser Health News

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  • Aug 03, 2020
  • News from the Web

Study: Antiviral drug remdesivir helps white, Black and Latino patients equally

Remdesivir, the only drug given emergency approval for treatment of COVID-19, appears to provide equal benefits to white, Asian, Black and Latino patients. Chicago Tribune

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  • Aug 03, 2020
  • News from the Web

Cook County COVID-19 announcement of stricter guidelines delayed

Stricter guidelines, similar to Chicago, to control the spread of COVID-19 in suburban Cook County will be announced [this] week, not [last] Friday, officials said. ABC 7 TV

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  • Aug 03, 2020
  • News from the Web

With Day Trips To The Bean And Deep-Dish Pizza Outings, Tourists Defy Chicago’s Quarantine Order

A city order, threats of a $500 fine, and a roped-off Bean sculpture didn’t stop tourists from traveling to Chicago to spend an afternoon at Millennium Park Wednesday. WBEZ Radio

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  • Aug 03, 2020
  • News from the Web

Before Mercy Hospital Decided To Shut Down, Its Parent Company Tried To Sell It. Nobody Would Buy It

After years of financial losses, giant national hospital network Trinity Health tried for more than a year to sell Mercy Hospital in Chicago or affiliate it with another health system. WBEZ Radio

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  • Aug 03, 2020
  • News from the Web

CPS asks parents to decide in next week whether to send kids to school for in-person classes

Chicago Public Schools parents are being asked to decide in the next week to send their children to school part-time this fall or keep them home with only one day of live instruction online. Sun-Times

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  • Aug 03, 2020
  • News from the Web

Rural hospitals are already struggling; COVID-19 only made things worse

Hundreds of rural hospitals across the country were labeled as vulnerable long before the coronavirus pandemic hit the United States. ABC 20 TV

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  • Aug 03, 2020
  • Press Release

Christopher Jessup Joins Illinois Health and Hospital Association

Christopher Jessup has joined the Illinois Health and Hospital Association as Community and Local Government Relations Manager, effective August 3.

Read More About Christopher Jessup Joins Illinois Health and Hospital Association
  • Aug 03, 2020
  • News from the Web

Illinois reports 14 more COVID-19 deaths, another 1,467 infections

State health officials announced 14 additional COVID-19 deaths Sunday along with 1,467 more infections. The state's seven-day average infection rate now stands at 3.9%. Daily Herald

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  • Aug 03, 2020
  • News from the Web

Sangamon County reports second-highest daily total of COVID cases

Sangamon County reported 42 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 Sunday, the second-highest daily total. State Journal-Register

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  • Aug 03, 2020
  • News from the Web

Illinois officials: Jo Daviess, 10 other counties at ‘warning level’ for coronavirus

Jo Daviess County is among 11 counties Illinois officials consider to be at a “warning level” for the coronavirus. KWQC-TV

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  • Aug 03, 2020
  • News from the Web

Will-Kankakee Coronavirus Region Has Fewest Beds Available: IDPH

Public health and government officials caution signs of significant increases in virus transmission in Illinois, with data about COVID-19 rates and hospitalizations heading the wrong direction. Patch

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  • Aug 03, 2020
  • News from the Web

Suburban Health Officials Say Multiple Attendees of Private Prom Held in Indiana Tested Positive

Will County health officials say multiple people who attended a privately held prom with hundreds of students and chaperones in northwest Indiana last week have tested positive for COVID-19. NBC 5 TV

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  • Aug 03, 2020
  • News from the Web

After Plummeting, the Virus Soars Back in the Midwest

First, the Pacific Northwest and the Northeast were hit hardest as the coronavirus tore through the nation. Then it surged across the South. New York Times

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  • Aug 03, 2020
  • News from the Web

As virus admissions rise, few options left 'short of a complete shutdown,' task force head warns

Dr. Alex Garza began his briefing on Friday with “sobering” news that St. Louis-area hospitals recorded 46 admissions for COVID-19 that day, pushing the seven-day average to 39. St Louis Post Dispatch

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  • Jul 31, 2020
  • Daily Briefing

IHA Daily Briefing: July 31

Appeals Court: CMS Cuts to 340B Payments Are Legal

Read More About IHA Daily Briefing: July 31
  • Jul 30, 2020
  • Daily Briefing

IHA Daily Briefing: July 30

HHS Releases Surprise Medical Billing Report

Read More About IHA Daily Briefing: July 30
  • Jul 29, 2020
  • Daily Briefing

IHA Daily Briefing: July 29

CMS Urged to Delay Repayment of Accelerated Payments

Read More About IHA Daily Briefing: July 29
  • Jul 28, 2020
  • Daily Briefing

IHA Daily Briefing: July 28

U.S. Senate GOP Releases COVID-19 Relief Bill

Read More About IHA Daily Briefing: July 28
  • Jul 27, 2020
  • Daily Briefing

IHA Daily Briefing: July 27

Guv Issues New Disaster Proclamation, Exec Orders

Read More About IHA Daily Briefing: July 27
  • Jul 15, 2020
  • Press Release

Illinois Business and Healthcare Groups Encourage Use of Face Masks to Save Lives, Protect Jobs

A diverse coalition of business groups renewed calls for Illinoisans to wear face masks when in public to save lives and protect the state’s economy.

Read More About Illinois Business and Healthcare Groups Encourage Use of Face Masks to Save Lives, Protect Jobs
  • Jul 15, 2020
  • Press Release

Illinois Hospital and Health Systems Showcase Quality Improvement Initiatives

Eighty quality improvement projects from Illinois hospitals and health systems represent the dedicated efforts of healthcare professionals to advance quality care and enhance health and well-being.

Read More About Illinois Hospital and Health Systems Showcase Quality Improvement Initiatives
  • Jun 24, 2020
  • Press Release

Summer Plants: Safe or Not?

As Illinoisans venture outside for summer fun, the Illinois Poison Center (IPC) reminds you that some of the season’s most attractive plants can be harmful—or even deadly.

Read More About Summer Plants: Safe or Not?
  • Jun 15, 2020
  • Press Release

IHA Statement on Health Disparities

Communities of color have been disproportionately impacted by COVID-19, which has highlighted glaring health disparities. Illinois’ hospital community is engaged on this issue.

Read More About IHA Statement on Health Disparities
  • May 01, 2020
  • News from the Web

Governor extends Illinois stay-at-home order to May 30

The statewide stay-at-home order will extend to May 30 with some changes, including mandatory face mask usage in restrictive public spaces, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker announced Thursday. Press Mentor

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  • May 01, 2020
  • News from the Web

Pritzker addresses stay-at-home order changes, church’s planned gathering

Illinois officials on Thursday said increased COVID-19 testing is "vital" to reopening the state’s economy, lifting social restrictions and protecting Illinois residents. State Journal-Register

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  • May 01, 2020
  • News from the Web

Suicides of two health care workers hint at the Covid-19 mental health crisis to come

The U.S. entered a grim new chapter in the virus saga with the recent deaths by suicide of two healthcare workers on the front lines of the fight against Covid-19 in New York City. Stat

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  • May 01, 2020
  • News from the Web

With 65 new free testing sites added, Illinois has run nearly 100K coronavirus tests in past week

Gov. Pritzker: 177 public sites now offer free COVID-19 testing statewide with 65 new sites since Pritzker reported last week that Illinois reached the goal of 10,000 tests a day. Chicago Sun-Times

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  • May 01, 2020
  • News from the Web

Illinois Latinos surpass African Americans in coronavirus cases

Latino community in Illinois has surpassed African Americans in confirmed COVID-19 cases and could have the greatest number of patients among all races and ethnic groups within days. Chicago Sun-Times

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  • Apr 29, 2020
  • News from the Web

Elective medical procedures now allowed under Pritzker's modified order

The modified stay at home order will be instituted on May 1st, which will allow medical facilities to perform elective procedures again as of May 11th. ABC 20 TV

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  • Apr 29, 2020
  • News from the Web

Chicago Hospital Sues Illinois Over Medicaid Pay ‘Crisis’

Chicago’s St. Anthony Hospital sued Illinois’ Medicaid agency in federal court, alleging the agency violated federal law. Bloomberg Law

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  • Apr 29, 2020
  • News from the Web

St. Louis County COVID-19 deaths jump 19% Tuesday as toll rises in Missouri, Illinois

Deaths in St. Louis County connected to the pandemic rose by 25 Tuesday to 157, according to the county. St. Louis Post-Dispatch

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  • Apr 29, 2020
  • News from the Web

Some doctors says they believe patients are staying away from hospitals, fearing COVID-19

They are fully staffed with doctors and nurses in the emergency room at West Suburban Hospital, in fact they say they have more than they need. ABC 7 TV

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  • Apr 29, 2020
  • News from the Web

Trump says US will be able to run 5 million COVID-19 tests per day very soon despite shortages

Pres. Donald Trump said Tuesday the U.S. will “very soon” run 5 million coronavirus tests per day, even as the lack of testing remains an obstacle for many states anxious to reopen for business. CNBC

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  • Apr 29, 2020
  • News from the Web

Trump says virus testing ‘not a problem,’ but doubts persist

The White House released new guidelines aimed at answering criticism that America’s virus testing has been too slow, and President Trump tried to focus on reopening the nation. Associated Press

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  • Apr 29, 2020
  • News from the Web

Post-pandemic recovery depends on ‘a whole new class of jobs’ to help people feel safe in public

Mayor Lightfoot said she expects a “whole new class of jobs that didn’t exist before” to be created by the need to reassure people it’s safe to begin congregating in public again. Chicago Sun-Times

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  • Apr 29, 2020
  • Press Release

Health Care Organizations Speak Out Against Legal Challenge to Stay-at-Home Order

IHA, along with ANA, ISAPN and ISMS, submitted an amicus brief on April 29 in the legal case challenging Governor Pritzker's stay-at-home executive order.

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  • Apr 28, 2020
  • News from the Web

Leaders in counties with worst COVID-19 death rates say measures go too far: ‘They was dying anyway’

Downstate Jasper County has seen only three residents die of COVID-19, and Monroe County only ten. Chicago Sun-Times

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  • Apr 27, 2020
  • News from the Web

Please Do Not Eat Disinfectant

There is no evidence that sunlight can cure coronavirus on the human body. New York Times

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  • Apr 24, 2020
  • News from the Web

Illinois’ stay-at-home order will extend through May 31, require masks in public due to coronavirus

Governor Pritzker will extend Illinois' stay-at-home order through May 31, although the modified order will slightly ease some restrictions while implementing new ones as well. WGN TV

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  • Apr 24, 2020
  • News from the Web

Illinois officials say the state is hitting its COVID-19 peak — and that’s actually good news

For weeks, Illinois officials have said the state has been “bending the curve” on the COVID-19 pandemic’s rate of growth. Chicago Tribune

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  • Apr 24, 2020
  • News from the Web

Postponed elective surgeries one reason Chicago area hospitals not overwhelmed during COVID-19

When the Surgeon General recommended elective surgeries be halted in mid-March so hospitals could save precious medical protective gear, and hospital beds, thousands were told to wait. ABC 7 V

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  • Apr 24, 2020
  • News from the Web

Hospitals Take Huge Financial Hits Because Of COVID-19

Many hospitals are struggling financially right now, and in some cases, jobs are on the line. CBS 2 TV

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  • Apr 24, 2020
  • News from the Web

State Takes Over Elgin Overflow Hospital Thursday: Officials

For the past couple weeks, the US Army Corps of Engineers has been turning an administrative building on the former Sherman Hospital campus in Elgin into a temporary overflow facility. Patch

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  • Apr 24, 2020
  • News from the Web

Big crowds on first day of COVID-19 testing facility in Aurora

A fourth state-run drive-through COVID-19 testing facility opened Thursday morning in Aurora to a long line of vehicles and reached capacity in just 4½ hours. Daily Herald

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  • Apr 24, 2020
  • News from the Web

New Task Force Will Plan Chicago’s Economic Recovery From Coronavirus

The COVID-19 Recovery Task Force, announced Thursday by Mayor Lightfoot, will include business leaders, local officials, activists and others from across Chicago and nearby regions. Block Club Chicago

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  • Apr 24, 2020
  • News from the Web

Coronavirus shakes the conceit of ‘American exceptionalism’

What if the real “invisible enemy” is the enemy from within — America’s very institutions? Associated Press

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  • Apr 24, 2020
  • News from the Web

New data on Gilead’s remdesivir, released by accident, show no benefit for COVID-19

The antiviral medicine remdesivir from Gilead Sciences failed to speed the improvement of COVID-19 patients or prevent them from dying, according a long-awaited clinical trial conducted in China. Stat

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  • Apr 24, 2020
  • News from the Web

Hospital EBITDA Margins Fell 13 Percentage Points Year-over-Year in March

As a result of the ongoing coronavirus outbreak, hospital EBITDA margins fell 13 percentage points year-over-year in March, according to a Kaufman Hall report released Tuesday. HealthLeaders

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  • Apr 13, 2020
  • Press Release

IPC Cleaning Product Exposures Up 30%

The Illinois Poison Center (IPC) urges people to use caution with cleaning products, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

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  • Apr 10, 2020
  • News from the Web

Pritzker says Illinois may be ‘bending the curve,’ but crowd limits likely last into summer

Illinois reported 1,344 new confirmed COVID-19 cases and 66 additional deaths Thursday as Gov. Pritzker says there is early evidence the state is beginning to "bend the curve" of infections. WGN TV

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  • Apr 10, 2020
  • News from the Web

‘Virus decides’ when to reopen US, Fauci says; no travel for Easter; deaths surpass 16,000

Dr. Anthony Fauci said Friday he would “want to see a clear indication” that the U.S. is “very clearly and strongly going in the right direction,” before reopening the country. USA Today

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  • Apr 10, 2020
  • News from the Web

Pritzker: Start thinking about a summer with no festivals

It's time to start thinking about a summer without any festivals, Gov. J.B. Pritzker said Thursday during his daily coronavirus briefing. Daily Herald

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  • Apr 10, 2020
  • News from the Web

Federal judge orders new safety policies at Cook County Jail but refuses to release inmates

A federal judge gave mandates to help keep Cook County inmates safe from the virus but ultimately refused to order their release to home incarceration or other forms of custody. Chicago Sun-Times

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  • Apr 10, 2020
  • News from the Web

Local federal courts donate protective gear to health care workers

The Central District of Illinois has donated personal protective equipment to community health care workers in Rock Island, Peoria, Springfield, and Urbana. KWQC TV

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  • Apr 08, 2020
  • News from the Web

A thank you to Gov. Pritzker

Illinois physicians and hospitals commend Gov. J.B. Pritzker for his steadfast leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic. Chicago Sun-Times Letter to the Editor

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  • Apr 07, 2020
  • News from the Web

DuPage/Will cases now exceed 1,420, city cases hit 57, food drive and to help those facing hardships

More than 1,420 residents in DuPage and Will counties have tested positive for the coronavirus as of Monday afternoon. Naperville Sun

Read More About DuPage/Will cases now exceed 1,420, city cases hit 57, food drive and to help those facing hardships
  • Apr 07, 2020
  • News from the Web

Rate of deaths, illness among black residents alarms cities

Chicago’s mayor pledged a public health campaign amid alarm that an overwhelming number of African American residents were among the  COVID-19 deaths in early data. Associated Press

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  • Apr 07, 2020
  • News from the Web

Trump says IG report finding hospital shortages is 'just wrong'

President Trump on Monday claimed that an inspector general report finding "severe" shortages of supplies at hospitals to fight the novel coronavirus is "just wrong." The Hill

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  • Apr 07, 2020
  • News from the Web

Congress, White House reach high for next virus bill

Congressional leaders are moving on another COVID-19 rescue package as President Trump indicated Americans will need more aid during the pandemic and economic shutdown. Associated Press

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  • Apr 07, 2020
  • News from the Web

Trump EPA still hasn’t told thousands of Americans about cancer risks from ethylene oxide

Nearly two years after the US EPA identified hot spots of EtO nationwide, the Trump administration hasn’t told thousands of Americans they face elevated cancer risk from EtO. Chicago Tribune

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  • Apr 07, 2020
  • News from the Web

Coronavirus patients rush to join studies of Gilead drug

The new coronavirus made Dr. Jag Singh a patient at his own hospital. Associated Press

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  • Apr 07, 2020
  • News from the Web

NAL donates face shields for hospitals

NAL Equipment Plant has responded to the shortage of PPE for healthcare workers by fabricating face shields and donating them to those combatting COVID-19. The Prairie Press

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  • Apr 07, 2020
  • News from the Web

HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital Receives Donation From Ford Motor Company

HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital recently received 3,000 FDA-approved plastic face shields from Ford Motor Co. River Bender

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  • Apr 07, 2020
  • News from the Web

Mental health providers turn to telemedicine to counsel patients during pandemic

The computer, the internet and the smartphone are now some of the top tools in the work of treating mental health conditions, suburban psychiatrists and psychologists say. Daily Herald

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  • Apr 03, 2020
  • News from the Web

Heartland Community College donates supplies to local hospitals

Now the college is lending a hand to help provide much-needed supplies to local hospitals. WICS/WRSP TV

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  • Mar 23, 2020
  • Press Release

Help Us Help You: A Message From Illinois Hospitals and Health Systems During COVID-19 Pandemic

IHA along with its 200 member hospitals and nearly 40 health systems called on all Illinois residents to help hospitals prevent a surge of COVID-19 patients.

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  • Mar 19, 2020
  • Press Release

Illinois Hospitals Issue Plea for Medical Supplies

IHA issued a plea to the construction industry, dentists, veterinarians and other groups that may be able to help Illinois’ more than 200 hospitals protect staff as they care for COVID-19 patients.

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  • Mar 16, 2020
  • News from the Web

Trump scrambles to broaden coronavirus testing options

The Trump administration scrambled to broaden COVID-19 testing with a flurry of new measures, and public confusion persisted over who should be tested and how to get checked. Associated Press

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  • Mar 16, 2020
  • News from the Web

Chicago-area hospitals place visitation limits as Illinois COVID-19 outbreak spreads

Hospitals across the Chicago area have begun restricting visitors amid the state’s COVID-19 outbreak to protect the health of patients and limit the virus’ spread. Chicago Sun-Times

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  • Mar 16, 2020
  • News from the Web

COVID-19 Testing Still Limited In Springfield — 'We're really having to make some tough decisions'

Testing for the novel coronavirus is still restricted in Sangamon County on Sunday, despite the first two confirmed cases being announced Saturday evening. NPR Illinois

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  • Mar 16, 2020
  • News from the Web

A Suburban Chicago Hospital System Can Now Test For COVID-19

NorthShore University HealthSystem can now rapidly test its own patients for COVID-19, the first medical network in the state with the ability to do so as the disease spreads. WBEZ Radio

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  • Mar 16, 2020
  • News from the Web

OSF HealthCare launches digital educational tool for COVID-19

OSF HealthCare has launched an updated digital solution to help educate and triage people who are concerned about COVID-19. Rockford Register Star

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  • Mar 16, 2020
  • News from the Web

Morris Hospital makes preparations as state COVID-19 cases grow

"The State is taking aggressive measures to help limit the spread of the virus as the number of positive cases we report each day is increasing,” said IDPH Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike. Morris Herald

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  • Mar 16, 2020
  • News from the Web

COCA Call for Long-Term Care Facilities Today

During a CDC Clinician Outreach and Communication Activity Call, presenters will focus on current information about COVID-19 as it relates to long-term care facilities, including nursing homes

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  • Mar 16, 2020
  • News from the Web

Patients slip through healthcare's safety net amid Medicaid financing debate

A patient receives attention at Parkland Memorial Hospital in Dallas. Modern Healthcare

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  • Mar 16, 2020
  • News from the Web

Feds look into county Medicaid payment backlog

Rush University Medical Center is among providers that have complained the county owes them money. Crain’s Chicago Business

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  • Mar 11, 2020
  • News from the Web

Coronavirus update: Teenager from McHenry County, and woman from Kane County confirmed cases

Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital in Barrington is treating a McHenry County teenager who has tested positive for the first of two cases of coronavirus outside of Cook County. Northwest Herald

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  • Mar 06, 2020
  • News from the Web

State Of Illinois’ Coronavirus Hotline Fields Myriad Of Calls With Questions, Concerns

The phones are ringing off at the State of Illinois’ coronavirus hotline. CBS Chicago

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  • Feb 26, 2020
  • Press Release

MAPS PSO Releases White Paper on Top 10 Patient Safety Issues for 2020

MAPS PSO has released Patient Safety Focus: Top 10 Safety Issues for 2020, a white paper offering strategies to address some of healthcare’s top challenges.

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  • Jan 02, 2020
  • Press Release

Illinois Health and Hospital Association Elects New Board

IHA is pleased to announce its newly elected 2020 Board of Trustees. Board officers serve a one-year term beginning Jan. 1, 2020.

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  • Dec 20, 2019
  • News from the Web

Pritzker Administration Behind On Hiring Spree To Tackle Medicaid Application Backlog

Democratic Gov. Pritzker’s administration is lagging behind on a promised hiring spree to help tackle Illinois’ backlog of applications for the government-run Medicaid health insurance program. WBEZ

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  • Dec 16, 2019
  • Press Release

Holiday Plants Are Not on the Menu

The Illinois Poison Center--the nation's oldest poison center--warns of gastrointestinal distress from three common holiday plants.

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  • Nov 18, 2019
  • Press Release

Illinois’ Rural Hospitals Celebrate National Rural Health Day

Over 1.4 million Illinoisans live in rural regions and rely on their local hospital as a vital—and often only—source of care. IHA and ICAHN are proud to recognize National Rural Health Day on Nov. 21.

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  • Nov 04, 2019
  • Press Release

MAPS PSO Presents Patient Safety Champion Award to a Rush Copley Medical Center Employee

MAPS PSO awarded Suzanne Khoury, a senior medical technologist at Rush Copley Medical Center in Aurora, with the MAPS PSO Patient Safety Champion award for preventing patient harm.

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  • Oct 07, 2019
  • Press Release

Is That a Mouse In Your House?

Nation’s oldest poison center offers rodent removal and prevention safety tips

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  • Sep 26, 2019
  • Press Release

IHA Honors Illinois Hospitals and Health Systems for Quality Initiatives with Significant Impact

Hospitals and health systems in Illinois devote significant resources to advancing patient care and safety. IHA recognizes those dedicated efforts through its Quality Excellence Achievement Awards.

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  • Aug 07, 2019
  • News from the Web

Doctors Argue Plans To Remedy Surprise Medical Bills Will ‘Shred’ The Safety Net

Chances are, you or someone you know has gotten a surprise medical bill. Kaiser Health News

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  • Aug 06, 2019
  • News from the Web

Medicaid managed care reforms signed into law

Gov. Pritzker said people applying for Medicaid benefits in Illinois will see those applications processed more quickly and healthcare providers will be paid more promptly. Capitol News Illinois

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  • May 01, 2019
  • Press Release

Illinois Hospital Leaders Urge Legislative Action on Needed Medicaid Managed Care Reforms

Hospital and health system leaders from across Illinois are urging the General Assembly to pass legislation on needed reforms to the state’s Medicaid managed care program before it adjourns May 31.

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  • Apr 04, 2019
  • Press Release

Illinois Hospital Leaders to Showcase Quality Improvement Initiatives at the State Capitol

4th Annual IHA Quality Advocacy Showcase on April 3 highlights statewide efforts to advance patient care, improve communities and reduce costs.

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  • Feb 28, 2019
  • Press Release

March is Illinois Poison Prevention Month

This week, the Illinois Poison Center (IPC) kicks off Illinois Poison Prevention Month, which serves as a timely reminder of the substantial harm poisoning can cause to people of all ages.

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  • Feb 21, 2019
  • Press Release

IHA Innovation Challenge: Partners in Progress Award Presented

Patients in Illinois are benefiting from reduced sepsis infection rates and enhancements in antimicrobial stewardship due to the efforts of two exceptional IHA members.

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  • Feb 15, 2019
  • Press Release

Comprehensive Medicaid Managed Care Reform Legislation Will Strengthen Illinois Medicaid Program

A comprehensive legislative package of Medicaid managed care reform bills strongly backed by the IHA and the hospital community has been introduced in the General Assembly.

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  • Feb 15, 2019
  • Press Release

Karen Harris Named IHA Senior Vice President and General Counsel

Karen Harris will join the Illinois Health and Hospital Association (IHA) as its Senior Vice President and General Counsel, effective March 1.

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  • Jan 28, 2019
  • Press Release

IHA's Longest Serving Employee Retires

On Jan. 31, IHA will lose its longest serving employee.

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  • Jan 02, 2019
  • Press Release

IHA Elects New Board

The Illinois Health and Hospital Association is pleased to announce its newly elected 2019 Board of Trustees.

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  • Dec 17, 2018
  • Press Release

IHA Statement on Texas District Court Ruling on the ACA

Illinois hospitals and health systems are extremely deeply disappointed by the district court's decision. This ruling threatens access to healthcare coverage for one million Illinoisans.

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  • Nov 19, 2018
  • Press Release

Illinois Poison Center Warns About "Silent Killer" in Homes

The Illinois Poison Center notes an increase in carbon monoxide poisoning in the winter.

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  • Oct 17, 2018
  • Press Release

Sarah Macchiarola Named IHA Vice President, Federal Government Relations

Sarah Macchiarola will join the Illinois Health and Hospital Association as its Vice President, Federal Government Relations, effective Nov. 29.

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  • Sep 20, 2018
  • Press Release

Statement from A.J. Wilhelmi Re: Illinois Supreme Court Ruling in Oswald v. Beard

We are pleased that the Illinois Supreme Court has unanimously upheld the constitutionality of the state’s hospital property tax exemption law.

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  • Jun 21, 2018
  • Press Release

Statement from A.J. Wilhelmi: Federal Approval of Redesigned Hospital Assessment Program

Statement from A.J. Wilhelmi, President & CEO

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  • Jun 06, 2018
  • Press Release

MAPS PSO Presents Patient Safety Champion Award

The Midwest Alliance for Patient Safety (MAPS) Patient Safety Organization (PSO) awarded Valerie Skroch of Morris Hospital & Healthcare Centers with the MAPS PSO Patient Safety Champion award.

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