Chicago's "Black MS Experience Program" Reveals Unique Struggles of African Americans with Multiple Sclerosis
Learn how the Black MS Experience Program series sheds light on the specific challenges African Americans face when living with multiple sclerosis and the importance of healthcare access, education, and early intervention.
Northwestern University Scores $45M for "THOR" Cancer-Fighting Device
Northwestern University researchers and Chicago-based startup CellTrans secure $45 million in ARPA-H funding to develop an implantable device to detect and treat cancer, aiming to revolutionize cancer therapy and cut cancer-related deaths by 50%.
Chicago Howard Brown Health Workers Vote for Potential Second Strike amid Wage and Healthcare Disparities
As Howard Brown Health Workers United votes in favor of a potential strike, the union calls for a fair contract, addressing ongoing concerns such as wage inequity and lack of gender-affirming healthcare coverage for employees.
Attorneys General Coalition Advocates for Stronger Mental Health Regulations; New York, Illinois, and more Push for Improved Access to Treatment
Attorney General Kwame Raoul and a coalition of attorneys general urge the federal government to ensure equal access to mental health and substance use services by implementing stronger regulations and addressing compliance failures.
AG Raoul Joins 20-State Showdown, Backs Trans Health Rights Against Florida's Medicaid Move
Attorney General Kwame Raoul and a coalition of 20 attorneys general submitted an amicus brief supporting transgender Americans' rights to Medicaid coverage for gender-affirming care in the case Dekker v. Weida.
Attorney General Kwame Raoul and Allies Urge for Stricter Regulations on Immigrant Child Detention Facilities
Attorney General Kwame Raoul, with others, urges HHS to ensure state licensing for housing unaccompanied immigrant children, aiming to enhance their welfare and access to services.
Illinois Health Officials Urge Increased Mask Use and Screenings Amid Surge in Respiratory Virus Hospitalizations
The Illinois Department of Public Health recommends healthcare facilities to adopt increased mask use and screening to combat a surge in respiratory viruses including COVID-19, flu, and RSV.
Illinois Faces Spike in Hospitalizations as Seasonal Respiratory Illnesses Surge, Health Officials Advise Precautions in Chicago
Illinois health officials warn of a spike in respiratory illnesses, urging precautions like masking and hand hygiene to prevent further spread and hospitalizations.
IDPH Delivers State Health Improvement Plan, Poised for 'Healthy Illinois 2028' Initiative
The IDPH has submitted the finalized State Health Improvement Plan and State Health Assessment to the Illinois General Assembly, outlining Healthy Illinois 2028 to enhance residents' health and wellbeing.
Illinois Leads Coalition of Attorneys General to Back New Jersey's Fight Against Private Immigrant Detention Centers
Attorney General Kwame Raoul and a group of 14 attorneys general support New Jersey's efforts to limit private immigrant detention centers, challenging a lower court ruling in favor of CoreCivic.
On Roe v. Wade's 51st Anniversary, Illinois Governor Pritzker Vows to Bolster Abortion Access in Chicago and Beyond
On the Roe v. Wade anniversary, Illinois Governor Pritzker reaffirmed the state's commitment to reproductive rights alongside advocates, vowing to keep access to abortion services open.
Illinois Department of Public Health Boosts Abortion Training with $2 Million Grant Ahead of February Deadline
Illinois is offering $2 million in training grants through the IDPH to enhance reproductive health services, including abortion care, especially in response to the increased out-of-state demand following the reversal of Roe v. Wade.
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker Launches BEACON, a Google-Assisted Mental Health Platform for Children in Chicago and Beyond
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker announced BEACON, a program to streamline access to children's mental health care, in collaboration with Google's Public Sector division.
Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul Secures $11.4M from Publicis Health Settlement Over Opioid Crisis Role
Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul secures a $350 million settlement from Publicis Health for its role in the opioid crisis, with Illinois receiving $11.4 million for remediation efforts.
Illinois Sees Welcome Decline in Seasonal Respiratory Illnesses Including COVID-19, IDPH Reports
The Illinois Department of Public Health reports a decline in respiratory viruses, including COVID-19, with improved conditions across the state. Public health guidance continues to encourage precautions and vaccination.
Chicago's Lurie Children's Hospital Responds to Cyberattack Causing Network Disruption and Surgery Delays
The Lurie Children's Hospital faces a cyberattack causing network outages, affecting medical procedures and day-to-day operations. They have set up an alternative call center for patient inquiries.
ADHD Medication Shortage Persists, Plaguing Patients in Chicago and Baltimore
The ongoing ADHD medication shortage is causing frustration for patients and doctors, with many struggling to obtain prescriptions for Adderall and similar drugs due to supply chain issues exacerbated by the pandemic and DEA production limits.
Illinois Health Department Reports Low Respiratory Virus Activity, Urges Continued Vigilance
Illinois reports low respiratory virus activity, cautioning residents to remain vigilant. IDPH emphasizes continued mask use and telehealth options, while highlighting available resources like free COVID-19 tests and vaccines.
Chicago Mourns Young Asylum Seeker's Death,City Reaffirms Health Safeguards for Shelter Residents
Chicago mourns Jean Carlos Martínez Rivero, an asylum seeker who died of sepsis from Strep infection. The city stresses its commitment to asylum seekers' health, providing medical screenings and resources to prevent future tragedies.
Uncovered Abuse Scandal Rocks Illinois Health Systems as Predatory Medics Prey on Patients
The Chicago Tribune uncovers widespread sexual abuse by medical workers in Illinois health systems, revealing systemic failures and a lack of oversight that allowed perpetrators to continue their abuse.
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker Announces $23M Birth Equity Initiative in Chicago to Tackle Maternal Mortality Disparities
Governor JB Pritzker announced a $23 million Birth Equity Initiative in Illinois to address racial disparities in maternal mortality, focusing on community-based care, child tax credits, and support for Black women.
Chicago Updates Isolation Guidelines: CDPH Encourages Staying Home When Ill, Tailored Approach Over Strict Timelines
Chicago Health officials update isolation guidance, emphasizing staying home until symptoms improve, rather than following a strict timeline, to prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses.
Cook County and Chicago Health Officials Alert on Measles Spread, Vaccinations Encouraged Amid New Cases
Health authorities warn of potential measles exposure at two Cook County medical facilities, with connections to recent cases and an outbreak at a migrant shelter. Public urged to get vaccinated to prevent spread.
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker Proposes Healthcare Protection Act to End 'Predatory' Insurer Practices
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker introduces the Healthcare Protection Act to curtail "predatory" insurance practices, aiming to give patients immediate access to care and reduce insurer interference.
Jury Awards $14 Million Verdict to Family After University of Chicago Medical Center's Birth Incident Leads to Child's Death
A Cook County jury awarded $14 million to the estate of a newborn who suffered severe brain damage at the University of Chicago Medical Center in 2016, leading to his death in 2020.
Illinois Allocates $2 Million for Abortion Services Training in Chicago Amid Rising Demand
Illinois allocates $2 million in grants to three organizations for abortion services training, increasing reproductive healthcare access post-Dobbs ruling. Governor Pritzker emphasizes Illinois' commitment to being a reproductive care haven.
Howard Brown Health Workers Reach Tentative Contract with Raises, Insurance for Part-Timers in Chicago
Union workers at Howard Brown Health reach a tentative contract agreement, with voting set for April 29-May 1, which includes raises, better wages, and insurance for part-time employees.
FDA Puts a Cork in Abbott's Heart Pumps: Recall Demanded After Death and Injury Reports Surge
The FDA has mandated Abbott to recall its heart pump devices due to 273 injuries and 14 deaths, emphasizing the severe health risks posed by these devices' potential to accumulate biological material and obstruct blood flow.
Illinois Lawmakers Advance Bills to Improve Mental Health Services and Provider Insurance Coverage
Illinois lawmakers have advanced bills to expand mental health care access, including improving insurance coverage and benefits for behavioral health services and first responders. These legislative efforts aim to address long-standing service gaps.
Illinois Steps Up Protective Measures in Response to H5N1 Threat in Dairy Cattle, Despite No Confirmed Cases
Illinois ramps up measures against H5N1 in cattle without confirmed cases, ensures safe milk consumption through pasteurization, and stresses the importance of surveillance to protect its dairy industry.
Illinois Cranks Up Mental Health Parity Campaign With Animated Push for Insurance Equality
The IDOI launches a new mental health parity campaign in Illinois with the character Yarney teaching about insurance rights, backed by a history of enforcing parity laws and reinvesting fines into advocacy efforts.
Bushnell Couple Awarded Record $41 Million in Illinois Medical Malpractice Case Against Multiple Healthcare Providers
A former lawyer, Craig Pierce, and his wife were awarded $41 million in a medical malpractice lawsuit after he suffered a stroke due to healthcare providers' negligence in managing his anticoagulant.
Illinois Debates Shift From Punishment to Support for Drug-Using Expectant Mothers Amid National Policy Reevaluation
Illinois debates a bill to move from punishing to treating drug use in pregnancy, facing opposition from a state’s attorney but finding support among healthcare groups advocating for compassionate approaches.
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker Highlights Youth Mental Health Initiatives at Lincoln Library Event
Illinois officials highlight mental health initiatives, including the Children's Behavioral Health Transformation Initiative and upcoming BEACON portal for public mental health services, during Mental Health Awareness Month.
Health Experts Champion Increased HPV Vaccinations for Males After Promising Research Presented in Chicago
New studies presented at a conference suggest that HPV vaccinations can significantly reduce cancer risk in males and highlight the importance of early vaccination, with a growing number of young men getting vaccinated.
Chicago Bolsters Public Safety with Over 1,000 'Stop the Bleed' Kits Citywide Ahead of Summer Season
Chicago has distributed over 1,000 Stop the Bleed kits to various locations, enabling public emergency responses to severe bleeding incidents. The city also provides training as part of its Safe Chicago program.
Attorneys General Coalition Spearheaded by Illinois' Raoul Seeks Stricter Control of Private Equity Health Care Mergers
Illinois AG Kwame Raoul and 10 other states are urging the FTC for stricter oversight on health care mergers involving private equity, concerned about higher costs and lower care quality.
Supreme Court Upholds Medication Abortion Access, Illinois AG Kwame Raoul's Vigilant Defense of Reproductive Rights Triumphs
The U.S. Supreme Court upheld the FDA’s position on medication abortion, impacting states like Illinois; AG Raoul praised the decision and pledged to protect reproductive rights.
Illinois Health Officials Warn of Early West Nile Virus Detection in 13 Counties, Urge Public to 'Fight the Bite'
The IDHP warns of early West Nile virus in Illinois, urging residents to take precautions during Mosquito Control Awareness Week after finding the virus in local mosquitos and birds.
Chicago Expands Victim Support and Braces for Summer Heat with Health Initiatives and PlayStreets Program
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson expands the ESVF for victims of gun violence and the city prepares for extreme heat by advising residents to use cooling centers. The latest Healthy Chicago Podcast discusses the PlayStreets initiative.
Medical Marvel in Chicago as Northwestern Medicine Performs First-Ever Kidney Transplant with Patient Fully Conscious
Surgeons at Northwestern Medicine performed the first kidney transplant with the patient awake, using spinal anesthesia. The recipient recovered quickly and may pioneer an approach for others.
Illinois Secures Federal Waiver to Enhance Medicaid Services, Expands Support to Include Holistic Healthcare Avenues
Illinois received a federal waiver to enhance Medicaid, introducing holistic services like housing support and re-socialization programs, aiming to improve community health outcomes.
Illinois Advisory Council Tackles Medicaid Reform to Improve Access to Costly Sickle Cell Treatments
The Illinois Advisory Council is reviewing Medicaid financing to improve access to high-cost drugs for conditions like Sickle Cell Disease, to be aligned with upcoming federal initiatives.
Chicago’s Northwestern Memorial and Rush Top U.S. News & World Report’s 'Honor Roll' Securing Illinois's Lead in Healthcare Excellence
Two Chicago hospitals, Northwestern Memorial and Rush University Medical Center, are ranked among the nation's best by U.S. News & World Report for the 13th consecutive year.
First Human Case of West Nile Virus in 2024 Detected in Suburban Cook County, Illinois Amid Increased Seasonal Mosquito Activity
Illinois confirms its first human case of West Nile virus for 2024 in a Cook County resident awaiting CDC confirmation; 33 counties show positive indicators of the virus.
Prime Healthcare Acquires Nine Ascension Hospitals in Illinois in Landmark Expansion
Ascension is selling nine Illinois hospitals to Prime Healthcare. The deal includes a $250 million investment by Prime, and employees must reapply for jobs. Regulatory approvals are pending, with completion expected by early 2025.
Zantac Litigation Intensifies in Cook County, Multiple Cases Settle, with GSK Rejecting Cancer Risk Claims
The article discusses recent developments in litigation related to the heartburn medication Zantac, including settlements and the dismissal of a case in Cook County, emphasizing GSK's defense against cancer risk claims.
Chicago Pet Owner's Dog Unintentionally Spayed at Banfield Hospital Amid Spay/Neuter Ordinance Debate
A dog in Chicago was spayed at Banfield Pet Hospital instead of receiving a scheduled teeth cleaning. The incident sparked discussions regarding a proposed mandatory spay/neuter ordinance. Banfield is investigating and providing care for the dog.
New $10 Million Bronzeville Health Center to Address Chicago's South Side Health Disparities by 2025
A new $10 million Bronzeville Health Center is set to open in Chicago's South Side in early 2025, aiming to address health disparities with services like family medicine and mental health care.
Illinois and UIC Update COVID-19 Isolation Guidelines in Line with CDC's Relaxed Measures
Illinois and UIC have updated their COVID-19 isolation guidelines, aligning with CDC's relaxed measures that treat the virus similar to other respiratory infections, no longer mandating a five-day isolation for asymptomatic individuals.
First Human West Nile Virus Infection of the Year Reported in Will County, Illinois
Illinois reports its first human West Nile Virus case of the year in Will County, with the patient being in their 70s. Mosquito batches across several communities tested positive, mirroring statewide virus activity.
Valparaiso Couple Awarded $25.8 Million in Medical Malpractice Case Against St. Mary Medical Center
A jury awarded a Valparaiso couple $25.8 million after miscommunication at St. Mary Medical Center led to a delayed cancer diagnosis for George "Tim" Yaros, causing severe health deterioration.
Health Officials Intensify Mosquito Control Efforts Amid West Nile Virus Surge in Chicago and EEE Alert in Massachusetts
Chicago ramps up mosquito spraying to combat West Nile virus, with health officials classifying the risk as high. Dr. Fauci's hospitalization for the virus underscores the threat, while other regions face diseases like EEE and dengue fever.
Chicago Hit by Peak Allergy Season with High Pollen Counts, as Climate Change Exacerbates Conditions Nationwide
Chicago is experiencing peak allergy season, with high ragweed and mold counts. Dr. Shah recommends maintaining indoor air quality and using medications to manage symptoms. Allergy seasons are worsening due to climate change.
Illinois Expands Newborn Screening to Include Rare Genetic Disorders, Paving Way for Early Treatment and Improved Outcomes
Illinois implements newborn screening for GAMT and SMA, advancements driven by family advocacy and medical support to ensure early diagnosis and treatment for affected infants.
Tinley Park, Illinois, Imposes Ban on Kratom Amid Controversy Over Herbal Substance's Legality and Safety
Tinley Park has banned kratom amid debates over its safety and economic impact, with local businesses and advocates resisting the move, while municipalities seek clearer federal guidance.
Illinois Students Gain Enhanced Mental Health Services; DuPage High School District 88 Receives $440K Grant
Illinois high school students can now access up to eight mental health counseling sessions through a grant from the IDPH, fostering enhanced support and services, including a new referral portal.
Chicago's CARE Program Fully Transitioned to Public Health Professionals for Mental Health Crisis Response
Chicago's CARE program for mental health emergencies is now fully staffed by public health professionals, removing police involvement. The successful pivot to a health-focused approach has shown zero arrests and minimal use of force.
$6.5 Million Boost for Illinois Healthcare, Grants Aim to Enhance Insurance Enrollment for Vulnerable Populations
Illinois is investing $6.5 million through the Get Covered Illinois Navigator Program to help residents enroll in health coverage, benefiting five organizations ahead of the state's transition to a state-administered marketplace by 2026.
Legionella, Lead, and Copper Detected in Drinking Water at Chicago’s EPA Office, Union Files Grievance Over Health Risks
Legionella bacteria, along with high levels of lead and copper, have been found in the EPA's Chicago office water, leading to a grievance filed by the employees' union.
Chicago Health Officials Issue Rabies Alert for Salt Shed Concertgoers After Potential Bat Exposure
The CDPH issued a health alert about possible rabies exposure from bats at a recent concert at the Salt Shed in Chicago. Attendees are urged to seek medical advice if they had contact with bats.
EHD Outbreak in Deer Hits Chicagoland and Michigan, Threatens Wildlife Balance Amid Hunting Season
Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD) is outbreaking in Midwest, hitting wildlife in Chicagoland and Michigan, with no threat to humans but fatal for deer, as reported by FOX 32 Chicago and CBS News Detroit.
MEGA MEAT RECALL! 12 Million Pounds of Listeria-Linked BrucePac Products Hit Schools, Costcos and Walmarts Nationwide
The BrucePac listeria recall expanded to around 12 million pounds of meat and poultry, affecting U.S. schools and stores like Costco and Walmart; no illnesses reported yet.
Attorney General Kwame Raoul Leads Coalition Urging Supreme Court to Uphold Preventive Care Provision of Affordable Care Act
Attorney General Kwame Raoul leads 24 attorneys general in an amicus brief at the Supreme Court to defend preventive care provisions of the ACA threatened by a lower court ruling.
Cook County Launches Campaigns Amid Surge in Syphilis Cases, Focuses on Prevention in At-Risk Communities
Cook County faces a syphilis surge, prompting health campaigns focusing on at-risk groups, particularly Black or Hispanic women and infants, with efforts to provide information and free testing to curb the increase.
Shirley Ryan AbilityLab Mourns the Loss of Dr. Kathryn Altonji, Trailblazer in Brain Injury Medicine, at 34
Dr. Kathryn Altonji, a brain injury medicine specialist at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, died at 34 after battling colon cancer. She was a rising talent, training young doctors and caring for traumatic brain injury patients.
Illinois Health Officials Call for Vigilance During Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Week
The Illinois Department of Public Health promotes awareness of lead poisoning risks during Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Week, highlighting the danger of lead in old homes and the state's efforts to reduce exposure.
Legionella, Lead, and Copper Found in Federal Buildings in Chicago, Prompting Health Concerns and Calls for Action
Legionella, lead, and copper have been found in some Chicago federal buildings' water sources, prompting calls for action from senators and concern among workers and the public.
Illinois Attorney General Warns Against Unapproved Weight Loss Drugs Amid New Year's Resolutions
The Illinois Attorney General warns against misleading sales of GLP-1 weight loss drugs by some med spas and online sellers, stressing the importance of obtaining these medications from reputable sources.
Illinois Selected for Federal "Transforming Maternal Health" Initiative to Boost Care for Medicaid Moms
Illinois was selected for the "Transforming Maternal Health" Model by CMS, receiving $17 million to enhance maternal care in Medicaid over 10 years, focusing on underserved areas and aiming to improve health outcomes.
Illinois Faces Spike in Flu, RSV, and COVID Hospitalizations; Health Officials Stress Importance of Vaccination
Illinois health officials report a surge in flu, RSV, and COVID-19 cases after the holidays. Authorities stress the importance of vaccinations and prevention measures to combat rising hospitalizations.
Attorney General Kwame Raoul Leads Coalition of 22 in Legal Battle Against Trump Administration's Research Funding Cuts
Attorney General Raoul leads a 22-state coalition suing to stop a Trump administration policy reducing NIH funds for research facility operations, fearing weakened global health innovation and public health impacts.
Illinois Celebrates '30 Days of Public Health' in April with Events, Podcasts, and a Job Fair in Springfield
Illinois celebrates "30 Days of Public Health" in April, with Governor Pritzker and IDPH emphasizing the importance of public health workers and raising awareness amid federal changes impacting the state.
Chicago Community Rallies for Release of ICE-Detained Man Poised to Donate Kidney to Brother in Life-Threatening Condition
Community and officials advocate for ICE to release Jose Gregorio Gonzalez, who is set to donate a kidney to his brother, Jose Alfredo Pacheco Gonzalez, facing end-stage renal disease.
Chicago Man Temporarily Released by ICE to Donate Kidney to Brother in Critical Health Condition
ICE released José Gregorio González, detained since March 3, allowing him to potentially donate a kidney to his brother José Alfredo Pacheco, in kidney failure and dependent on dialysis. Community advocacy played a key role in his temporary release.
Illinois Attorney General Joins 21-State Coalition to Defend ACA from Trump Administration Rollbacks
Illinois AG Kwame Raoul and 21 other AGs opposed Trump administration's proposed ACA changes, including excluding DACA recipients from the exchanges, fearing increased complexity and cost in healthcare access.
Walgreens Coughs Up to $350M to Settle Opioid Misconduct Claims in Landmark DOJ Deal
Walgreens will pay up to $350 million to settle U.S. DOJ allegations of improper opioid prescription handling, without admitting liability, as part of a deal closing all opioid-related litigation against the company.
Illinois Reports First Measles Case of 2025; Health Authorities Urge Vaccinations Amid National Rise in Cases
Illinois reports the first measles case of 2025, amidst a surge in national cases. Health officials emphasize the importance of vaccinations, following the increase in measles after dips during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Chicago Researchers Confront NIH Grant Cancellations Amid Trump Administration's Funding Cuts
Trump administration's funding cuts have led to the cancellation of 694 NIH grants, impacting health studies at Northwestern University and UIC, with researchers struggling to continue their work on conditions like diabetes and HIV risk factors.
Attorney General Raoul and Coalition Urge AMA to Protect Providers Seeking Abortion, Gender-Affirming Care Certification Amid Legal Risks
Attorney General Raoul, with 20 other attorneys general, urges the AMA to help abortion and gender-affirming care providers get certified without risking legal and safety issues, especially in restrictive states like Texas.
DuPage County Mosquitoes Test Positive for West Nile Virus; Officials Urge Chicagoland Residents to Take Precautions
DuPage County in Chicagoland has found mosquitoes testing positive for West Nile virus, and has advised residents to take precautions to prevent bites and eliminate standing water.
Chicago's Weiss Memorial Hospital Battles Heatwave as AC Fails, Elderly Patients Transferred Amid Rising Temperatures
Weiss Memorial Hospital in Chicago faces a catastrophic AC failure amidst a heatwave, forcing the transfer of inpatients and redirection of ambulances, with repairs taking several days.
Illinois Health Officials Alert 17 Counties of Rising West Nile Virus Risk Amidst National Mosquito Control Week
The Illinois Department of Public Health has detected West Nile virus in 17 counties and urges preventive measures against mosquitoes during National Mosquito Control Awareness Week.
Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo Recall Linked to Fatalities and Illnesses across 13 States, Involving Popular Retailers Kroger and Walmart
Listeria linked to chicken fettuccine alfredo from Kroger and Walmart causes deaths and a pregnancy loss. FreshRealm recalls products. Consumers advised to discard or return items.
Decade After Supreme Court Legalized Same-Sex Marriage, Uncertainties Loom Amid Enduring National Approval
A decade after the legalization of same-sex marriage in the U.S., legal and societal challenges persist, with concerns over the Supreme Court's current composition and state actions.
Illinois Attorney General Leads Multi-State Lawsuit Against Trump Administration Over DHS Health Data Access
Attorney General Kwame Raoul and 19 other attorneys general are suing the Trump administration for allowing DHS to access personal health data, which they argue could impact public health and compromise privacy.
Lead Levels in Peoria Water Supply Exceed Federal Standards, Illinois American Water Co. Issues Alert
Peoria residents notified of high lead levels in some water samples. Out of 103 samples, 14 showed lead above the federally mandated threshold. Actions include additional testing, corrosion control evaluations, and a lead pipe replacement program.
UChicago Medicine Ceases Gender-Affirming Care for Minors Amid Legal Conflicts and Executive Orders
UChicago Medicine halts gender-affirming care for minors, echoing similar actions by other Chicago hospitals, in response to challenges and complexities surrounding transgender healthcare for the youth.
Chicago Hospitals Northwestern Memorial and Rush Secure Spots on U.S. News & World Report's 'Best Hospitals' Honor Roll for 2025-2026
Two Chicago hospitals, Northwestern Memorial and Rush University Medical Center, have been named in the U.S. News & World Report's 2025-2026 "Best Hospitals" list.
Lake County Escalates Mosquito Control Efforts Amid Rising West Nile Threat in Chicago Area
Lake County intensifies mosquito control efforts to combat West Nile virus, following increased numbers of infected mosquitoes in the area, and local health officials advise residents on protective measures.
Chicago Pharmacy Agrees to $250,000 Settlement for Alleged Controlled Substance Violations, Following DEA Investigation
Allcare Discount Pharmacy in Chicago settled a lawsuit for $250,000 over alleged violations of the Controlled Substances Act, following DEA findings of poor record-keeping and illegal pill diversion by its staff.
U.S. Health Secretary's Panel Ignites Controversy with Proposed MMRV Vaccine Restrictions
Kennedy's vaccine advisory panel recommends restrictions on MMRV vaccines for children under 4, advocates for separate MMR and varicella vaccinations, stoking debate and concern among health professionals.
Illinois AG Kwame Raoul Seeks Injunction Against Trump Administration to Protect Planned Parenthood Funding
Attorney General Kwame Raoul files a preliminary injunction to block a Trump administration law that would defund Planned Parenthood and affect reproductive healthcare, joined by a coalition of states.
Nationwide Sting Nabs Sham Cancer Charity Operators: Kars-R-Us Duo Faces Fundraising Ban After Misusing Millions
Attorney General Raoul and the FTC lead a bipartisan crackdown against Kars-R-Us.com Inc. for a deceptive breast cancer fundraising scheme, with restrictions imposed on its operators and a partial monetary judgment ordered.
Chaos in Public Health: Trump Administration Axes Hundreds of HHS Workers Amid Shutdown Furor
The Trump administration fired numerous federal health employees, using it as pressure against Democrats. Many CDC workers' terminations were errors; the layoffs affected public health significantly.
Chicago Judge Grants Bond to Detained Father of Cancer-Stricken Daughter in Niles
Ruben Torres Maldonado, detained by ICE, received a $2,000 bond from an immigration judge. His daughter is battling Stage 4 cancer. The judge deemed him not a public safety risk, allowing for temporary relief for his family.
Chicago Woman Critically Stranded in Jamaica Post-Hurricane, Urgent Medical Assistance Sought to Prevent Organ Rejection
A Chicago woman is stranded in Jamaica without post kidney transplant medication following Hurricane Melissa, facing a life-threatening situation as local hospitals lack necessary resources.
Illinois Health Director Advocates for Vaccinations, Citing Reduced Hospitalization Risks
Illinois health officials, including Dr. Sameer Vohra, are advocating for seasonal flu and COVID-19 vaccinations, emphasizing their importance in preventing serious illness, especially with cold weather and holidays approaching.
Illinois to Implement Sweeping Healthcare Reforms in 2026: Expanded Coverage and Vaccine Accessibility
Illinois will implement new healthcare laws by 2026, including mandatory insurance coverage of brand-name drugs and expanded vaccine access, emphasizing transparency and science-based policies.
Abbott's Glucose Monitors Linked to 700+ Injuries and 7 Deaths, Chicago-based Firm Issues Urgent Recall
Abbott Diabetes Care has issued an urgent message about some FreeStyle Libre glucose monitors providing incorrect low readings, linked to over 700 injuries and 7 deaths. The company is offering replacements for the affected devices.
Medical Maelstrom: CDC Panel, with Anti-Vaccine Influence, Sparks Outrage Over Hepatitis B Vaccine Shift for Newborns
A federal vaccine committee, with input from an anti-vaccine activist, has voted to alter the recommendation for immediate hepatitis B vaccination for all U.S. newborns, prompting widespread criticism from health professionals.
New Study Casts Doubt on Cancer-Reducing Claims of GLP-1 Obesity Drugs, Calls For Long-term Research
Research indicates GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic may not reduce the risk of obesity-related cancers, contradicting earlier studies. Longer-term studies are needed to fully understand their effects.
Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Raw Oysters Affects 22 States; CDC Investigates as Cases Surface in Illinois
A national Salmonella outbreak linked to raw oysters resulted in 64 people falling ill, with 20 hospitalizations across 22 states, including Illinois. The CDC is investigating with no recalls yet issued.
Breakthrough in Weight Loss: GLP-1 Pills Set to Enhance Affordability and Accessibility in 2026
The weight loss drug market anticipates significant changes with more accessible GLP-1 pills in 2026, led by Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy pill and followed by an Eli Lilly alternative. Pricing strategies aim to lower costs for patients.
Appellate Court Upholds Injunction Against Trump Administration's Medical Research Funding Cuts Following Multi-State Lawsuit Led by Illinois AG Raoul
Attorney General Kwame Raoul's lawsuit against the Trump administration's research funding cuts resulted in an appellate court issuing a permanent injunction to protect medical funding in Illinois and nationwide.
Chicago Reels as President Trump Cuts $2 Billion from Mental Health and Addiction Services, Mayor Johnson and CDPH Commissioner Ige Criticize Move
President Trump cuts $2 billion from mental health and addiction services, prompting criticism from Chicago’s Mayor Johnson and CDPH Commissioner Ige, especially as Chicago reports progress in reducing overdose deaths.
Off-Duty Doctor and Police Officer Save Chicago Bears Fan Suffering Cardiac Arrest at Soldier Field
A Bears fan survived a cardiac arrest at Soldier Field thanks to CPR from an ER doctor and a police officer attending the game. She later met her rescuers and emphasized the importance of CPR and AED training.
Marion Lifeline: Deaconess Digs In On New EMS Hub To Slash Rural Waits
Deaconess Illinois broke ground on a Marion EMS hub that will centralize interfacility transfers, house ambulances and crew quarters, and aim to cut long transfer waits across Southern Illinois.
Pritzker Announces $5 Million Plan to Add 1,000 Health Care Jobs in Chicago
A $5M Pritzker Traubert grant will fund HealthCatalyst Chicago, a Cook County Health and City Colleges partnership to train and place 1,000 Chicagoans in health jobs. Local officials say the program could reduce staffing agency use and expand steady career paths.
UCLA Heart Study Says Ultraprocessed Foods Stack The Odds Against Your Heart
A new MESA analysis finds that each extra daily serving of ultraprocessed food modestly raises cardiovascular risk, with the biggest effects seen in Black participants. The findings are reported in JACC: Advances.
High‑Glyphosate Midwest Counties Show Rising Late‑Stage Lymphoma Rates
Food & Water Watch mapping shows counties that spray the most glyphosate often have higher late‑stage non‑Hodgkin lymphoma rates, concentrated in the Upper Midwest.
Waukegan Hospital Rushes to Cover $2 Million Tax Bill, Avoid Foreclosure
Vista Medical Center East pledged roughly $2 million to redeem past-due property taxes after a tax buyer threatened foreclosure. The payment would pause a legal fight that could affect local services and taxing districts.
Cook County Judge Puts Alden Nursing Homes On The Hot Seat
A Cook County judge allowed a class-action alleging chronic understaffing at six Alden-run nursing homes to proceed, exposing the operator to potential damages and discovery. Plaintiffs say staffing was often far below legal minimums.
Chicago Patients Clamor For Alzheimer’s Blood Test As Doctors Hit The Brakes
A Chicago survey found most patients would take an Alzheimer’s blood test, but doctors say results need confirmatory testing and counseling. Tests aren’t yet a standalone diagnosis.
Indiana Medicaid Shakeup Puts Heat On High‑Price Hospitals
Indiana is tying Medicaid payments to hospitals’ commercial prices in a new financing overhaul that aims to direct nearly $1.9 billion toward lower‑cost and rural providers. State officials say the move will pressure high‑priced systems to lower rates.
West Nile Mosquitoes Found In Mokena, Will County
Mosquitoes trapped in Mokena tested positive for West Nile virus — the first detection in Will County this season. State health data show several counties with positive mosquito batches and officials urge residents to remove standing water.










































































































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