For Women's History Month, we explore the often-overlooked issue of women's reproductive health. Despite societal progress, just 2% of medical research funding addresses this crucial area, revealing a significant gap requiring urgent attention.&nbsp;Since the Dobbs v Jackson Women’s Health Organization ruling nearly two years ago, the Supreme Court revoked reproductive freedom, a protected right. While Chicago and Illinois have enacted progressive policies, challenges like access barriers and high maternal-child mortality persist.&nbsp;In this episode, we're joined by Dr. Kai Tao, a leading public health advocate in women's reproductive health. As co-founder of ICAN! and a certified nurse midwife, Dr. Tao brings extensive clinical and leadership experience. Together, we explore contraception access, pregnancy, and infertility treatments, fostering a comprehensive understanding of this vital topic.&nbsp;Kai Tao, ND, MPH, CNM,&nbsp;Co-Founder and Principal, Impact and Innovation, ICAN! (Illinois Contraceptive Access Now) Bio: Dr.&nbsp;Kai Tao has extensive experience in women’s health programs and clinical operations, opening a&nbsp;birth center&nbsp;for underserved women in Arizona and leading a midwifery group at Erie Family Health Center.&nbsp;&nbsp;For the last 18&nbsp;years, she has been on faculty with Northwestern School of Medicine, working clinically per diem at Prentice Women’s Hospital. Kai also served as VP of Clinical Operations and Associate Medical Director for Planned Parenthood of Illinois, where she oversaw 17 health centers, the Quality Assurance Department, Community Education, and&nbsp;started male services including vasectomies.&nbsp;In 2013, she was a Senior Policy Advisor to the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) Director. Kai is the&nbsp;co-author&nbsp;of the&nbsp;Illinois Family Planning Action Plan – a multi-pronged approach to&nbsp;advance contraceptive&nbsp;equity with&nbsp;the goal of supporting all people to get the care they need to decide if, when, and under what circumstances to be pregnant.&nbsp;She co-founded ICAN! in 2021 to support accessing high-quality birth control without financial barriers. She also&nbsp;served as the Deputy Commissioner and Chief Program Officer for the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH).&nbsp;Kai&nbsp;received her Master of Science and&nbsp;Doctorate of Nursing from the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center and her Master of Public Health from Harvard School of Public Health.&nbsp;Follow HC3 on LinkedIn:&nbsp;<a href="www.linkedin.com/company/hc3" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.linkedin.com/company/hc3</a>This episode of the HC3 podcast is brought to you by Third Horizon Strategies. HC3 is administratively and strategically managed as an initiative of Third Horizon Strategies. Third Horizon is a Chicago-based but nationally present boutique advisory firm focused on shaping the future state of health care. <a href="http://www.ThirdHorizonStrategies.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.ThirdHorizonStrategies.com</a>Follow Third Horizon Strategies on X (formerly Twitter)&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/3rdhorizonstrat" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@3rdHorizonStrat</a>&nbsp;and on LinkedIn: <a href="http://www.linkedin.com/company/third-horizon-strategies" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.linkedin.com/company/third-horizon-strategies</a>For more information about live events, webinars, and other updates on the work of HC3, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://podcasts.wixapps.net/www.HC3.Health" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.HC3.Health</a>.

Exploring Advocacy and Access in Women’s Reproductive Health with Dr. Kai Tao, ND, MPH, CNM

Illinois is frequently regarded as a stronghold for promoting and enhancing health care access. The state’s commitment to fostering health care access is evident through progressive initiatives and legislation, creating a secure environment for diverse populations. This commitment extends to immigrants, women’s reproductive health, LGBTQ+ affirming care, and equitable care for diverse communities. Despite these efforts, the ongoing economic instability and the phasing out of various COVID-19 emergency relief funding sources pose challenges for the state and the health care ecosystem as they chart a course ahead. In this installment of the HC3 Podcast, HC3 collaborated with Nixon Peabody LLP for a live discussion recorded on January 25 addressing the Future of Health In Illinois.Opening Remarks: David Smith, Co-Founder, HC3 and Founder and CEO, Third Horizon StrategiesKeynote Address: Grace Hou, Deputy Governor for Health and Human Services, State of Illinois (Confirmed)Moderator: April E. Schweitzer, Partner, Nixon Peabody (Confirmed)Featured Panelists:Kristen Schultz, Chief Strategy and Operations Officer, Planned Parenthood of IllinoisSteph Willding, CEO, CommunityHealthMichael Ziri, Director of Policy, Equality Illinois --- Views and opinions expressed are solely those of the individual speakers and do not reflect HC3's positions or policies. Furthermore, the episode contains discussions and references to stories that may be triggering, so we advise listening at your own discretion. If there are young adults or children nearby, please be mindful that some of the topics or content may not be suitable. ---Follow HC3 on LinkedIn:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.linkedin.com/company/hc3" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.linkedin.com/company/hc3</a> This episode of the HC3 podcast is brought to you by Third Horizon Strategies. HC3 is administratively and strategically managed as an initiative of Third Horizon Strategies. Third Horizon is a Chicago-based but nationally present boutique advisory firm focused on shapingthe future state of health care. <a href="www.ThirdHorizonStrategies.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.ThirdHorizonStrategies.com</a> Follow Third Horizon Strategies on X (formerly Twitter)&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/3rdHorizonStrat" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@3rdHorizonStrat&nbsp;</a>and on LinkedIn: <a href="www.linkedin.com/company/third-horizon-strategies" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.linkedin.com/company/third-horizon-strategies</a> For more information about live events, webinars, and other updates on the work of HC3, visit&nbsp;<a href="www.HC3.Health" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.HC3.Health</a>.

The Future of Health In Illinois, LIVE Edition

In our latest HC3 Podcast episode, we welcome the new year with a distinguished guest, Dr. Allison Arwady, a celebrated figure in public health. Known for her crucial role and resilience during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Arwady’s impact on the field is extraordinary. Dr. Arwady’s notable career journey, from her previous position as Commissioner of the Chicago Department of Public Health to her current role as Director of the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control at the CDC, highlights her dedication and innovative spirit. Her tenure at the Chicago Department of Public Health, beginning in 2015 and culminating in her appointment as Commissioner in January 2020, was marked by her effective management of key public health areas, including disease control, environmental health, emergency preparedness, and behavioral health, tackling challenges from disease outbreaks to substance misuse. Her leadership was particularly significant during Chicago’s intense battle with the COVID-19 pandemic. This episode offers an in-depth look at Dr. Arwady’s impressive career, her major achievements, and her perspective on the future of public health. Follow HC3 on LinkedIn:&nbsp;<a href="www.linkedin.com/company/hc3" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.linkedin.com/company/hc3</a> This episode of the HC3 podcast is brought to you by Third Horizon Strategies. HC3 is administratively and strategically managed as an initiative of Third Horizon Strategies. Third Horizon is a Chicago-based but nationally present boutique advisory firm focused on shaping the future state of health care. www.<a href="ThirdHorizonStrategies.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">ThirdHorizonStrategies.com</a> Follow Third Horizon Strategies on X (formerly Twitter)&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/3rdHorizonStrat" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@3rdHorizonStrat&nbsp;</a>and on LinkedIn: <a href="www.linkedin.com/company/third-horizon-strategies" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.linkedin.com/company/third-horizon-strategies</a> For more information about live events, webinars, and other updates on the work of HC3, visit&nbsp;<a href="www.HC3.Health" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.HC3.Health</a>.

Charting a Path in Public Health Leadership with Allison Arwady, MD, MPH

Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a heightened awareness and emphasis on the significance of health equity and the equitable distribution of health care resources and opportunities for individuals, irrespective of their social or economic standing. The pandemic has brought existing health disparities into sharp focus, exacerbating them and prompting concerted efforts to address these inequities and enhance overall health outcomes for vulnerable and marginalized communities. In this installment of the HC3 Podcast, Co-host David Smith leads a live discussion recorded on December 7 at the Illinois Medical District (IMD). The conversation highlights local leaders at the forefront of pioneering initiatives aimed at tackling disparities and promoting a more equitable health care system for all. Featured Guests:Juana Ballesteros, BSN RN MPH, Director, Equitable Alliances, AMA (American Medical Association)Rushil Desai, CEO, Aetna Better Health of IllinoisAli Khan, MD, MPP Chief Medical Officer – Value-Based Care Strategy, Oak Street HealthNgozi Ogbunamiri Ezike, MD, President and CEO, Sinai Chicago Follow HC3 on LinkedIn:&nbsp;<a href="www.linkedin.com/company/hc3" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.linkedin.com/company/hc3</a> This episode of the HC3 podcast is brought to you by Third Horizon Strategies. HC3 is administratively and strategically managed as an initiative of Third Horizon Strategies. Third Horizon is a Chicago-based but nationally present boutique advisory firm focused on shaping the future state of health care. <a href="www.ThirdHorizonStrategies.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.ThirdHorizonStrategies.com</a> Follow Third Horizon Strategies on X (formerly Twitter)&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/3rdhorizonstrat" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@3rdHorizonStrat</a>&nbsp;and on LinkedIn: <a href="www.linkedin.com/company/third-horizon-strategies" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.linkedin.com/company/third-horizon-strategies</a> For more information about live events, webinars, and other updates on the work of HC3, visit&nbsp;<a href="www.HC3.Health" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.HC3.Health</a>.

Advancing Health Equity in Chicago and Beyond, LIVE Edition

Medicaid, a government-funded health insurance program in Illinois, covers about 3.9 million people, including low-income adults, children, pregnant women, and individuals with disabilities. While playing a vital role in extending health care coverage to those who may struggle with affordability, questions arise about its effectiveness in fulfilling its commitment to our communities. In this HC3 podcast episode, hosts David Smith and Meghan Phillipp converse with Doug Elwell, acknowledged as a leading Medicaid expert in Illinois. Serving as the CEO of HMA (Health Management Associates), a prominent health care consulting and research firm in the U.S., Doug draws on extensive experience from various roles in both the public and private sectors. Driven by a deep passion and personal insights, Doug actively contributes to innovative thinking within the health care field. Follow HC3 on X (formerly Twitter) <a href="https://twitter.com/hc3chicago" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@HC3Chicago</a> and on LinkedIn: <a href="http://www.linkedin.com/company/hc3" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.linkedin.com/company/hc3</a> This episode of the HC3 podcast is brought to you by Third Horizon Strategies. HC3 is administratively and strategically managed as an initiative of Third Horizon Strategies. Third Horizon is a Chicago-based but nationally present boutique advisory firm focused on shaping the future state of health care. www.ThirdHorizonStrategies.com&nbsp; Follow Third Horizon Strategies on X (formerly Twitter) <a href="https://twitter.com/3rdHorizonStrat" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@3rdHorizonStrat</a>&nbsp; and on LinkedIn: <a href="http://www.linkedin.com/company/third-horizon-strategies" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.linkedin.com/company/third-horizon-strategies</a> For more information about live events, webinars, and other updates on the work of HC3, visit <a href="http://www.hc3.health" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.HC3.Health</a>.

Navigating the Medicaid Landscape with Doug Elwell, HMA (Health Management Associates)

Earlier this year, the <a href="https://chiul.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Chicago Urban League</a> unveiled its <a href="https://chiul.org/2023/06/01/read-our-2023-state-of-black-chicago-report/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">"State of Black Chicago" report</a> for 2023, shedding light on the enduring challenge of hyper-segregation in the city. The Chicago Urban League periodically publishes the State of Black Chicago to evaluate the well-being of Black residents within the city. For this year's report, they partnered with the Loyola University Institute for Racial Justice to delve into essential indicators across categories such as income and employment, housing, education, health and the environment, and crime and justice. In this installment of the HC3 podcast, hosts David Smith and Meghan Phillipp have a conversation with Karen Freeman-Wilson, delving into further details of the report and exploring some of the ongoing initiatives and activities of the Chicago Urban League to advance their efforts. Karen assumed her role as President and CEO of the Chicago Urban League in January 2020. Her professional background encompasses legal expertise, previous experience as a judge, and a successful career in politics. She held the position of Indiana Attorney General and served as the mayor of Gary, Indiana. Karen is deeply dedicated to the causes of equity and social justice. Her support is instrumental in advancing the Chicago Urban League's mission of fostering economic, educational, and social progress for the city’s Black community through both direct service and advocacy.&nbsp; Follow HC3 on X (formerly Twitter)&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/hc3chicago" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@HC3Chicago</a>&nbsp;and on LinkedIn:&nbsp;<a href="www.linkedin.com/company/hc3" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.linkedin.com/company/hc3</a>This episode of the HC3 podcast is brought to you by Third Horizon Strategies. HC3 is administratively and strategically managed as an initiative of Third Horizon Strategies. Third Horizon is a Chicago-based but nationally present boutique advisory firm focused on shaping the future state of health care. <a href="http://www.thirdhorizonstrategies.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.ThirdHorizonStrategies.com</a>&nbsp;Follow Third Horizon Strategies on X (formerly Twitter)&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/3rdhorizonstrat" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@3rdHorizonStrat</a>&nbsp;and on LinkedIn: <a href="http://www.linkedin.com/company/third-horizon-strategies" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.linkedin.com/company/third-horizon-strategies</a>For more information about live events, webinars, and other updates on the work of HC3, visit&nbsp;<a href="www.HC3.Health" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.HC3.Health</a>.

The State of Black Chicago with Karen Freeman-Wilson, Chicago Urban League

In this installment of the HC3 podcast co-hosts David Smith and Meghan Phillipp engaged in a conversation with Dr. Dana Weiner.&nbsp;Weiner serves as the Director of the Children’s Behavioral Health Transformation Initiative and a Senior Policy Fellow at Chapin Hall. In March 2022, Governor Pritzker unveiled the <a href="https://www.illinois.gov/news/press-release.24652.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Children's Behavioral Health Transformation Initiative</a>, which fosters collaboration to enhance the quality of children's behavioral health services. Governor Pritzker appointed Weiner to lead this initiative to coordinate efforts across state agencies and engage various stakeholders statewide to improve support and accessibility to mental and behavioral health services for children in Illinois. Follow HC3 on X (formerly Twitter) <a href="https://twitter.com/hc3chicago" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@HC3Chicago</a> and on LinkedIn: <a href="www.linkedin.com/company/hc3" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.linkedin.com/company/hc3</a> This episode of the HC3 podcast is brought to you by Third Horizon Strategies. HC3 is administratively and strategically managed as an initiative of Third Horizon Strategies. Third Horizon is a Chicago-based but nationally present boutique advisory firm focused on shaping the future state of health care. <a href="www.ThirdHorizonStrategies.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.ThirdHorizonStrategies.com</a>&nbsp; Follow Third Horizon Strategies on X (formerly Twitter) <a href="https://twitter.com/3rdhorizonstrat" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@3rdHorizonStrat</a>&nbsp;and on LinkedIn: <a href="www.linkedin.com/company/third-horizon-strategies" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.linkedin.com/company/third-horizon-strategies</a> For more information about live events, webinars, and other updates on the work of HC3, visit <a href="www.HC3.Health" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.HC3.Health</a>.

Transforming Children’s Behavioral Health in Illinois with Dr. Dana Weiner

In this episode of the HC3 podcast, Co-hosts David Smith and Meghan Phillipp sat down with Stephanie (Steph) Willding, MPA, CEO of CommunityHealth. CommunityHealth is the largest free clinic in the country, serving a low-income, uninsured population. CommunityHealth’s unique service delivery model is made possible by more than 1,000 volunteers, donors, and partners committed to high-quality care at no cost to patients. Steph became the Chief Executive Officer of CommunityHealth in November 2019. She is a seasoned thought leader with a documented record of increasing and diversifying revenue, using data to improve and adapt program performance, and advancing organizational goals through strategic and annual planning. Steph has committed her career to building organizations that empower underserved communities to break the cycle of broken systems and lead healthy, fulfilling lives. Follow HC3 on X (formerly Twitter) @HC3Chicago and on LinkedIn: <a href="www.linkedin.com/company/hc3" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.linkedin.com/company/hc3</a> This episode of the HC3 podcast is brought to you by Third Horizon Strategies. HC3 is administratively and strategically managed as an initiative of Third Horizon Strategies. Third Horizon is a Chicago-based but nationally present boutique advisory firm focused on shaping the future state of health care. <a href="www.ThirdHorizonStrategies.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.ThirdHorizonStrategies.com</a> Follow Third Horizon Strategies on X (formerly Twitter) <a href="twitter.com/3rdHorizonStrat" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@3rdHorizonStrat</a>&nbsp; and on LinkedIn: <a href="www.linkedin.com/company/third-horizon-strategies" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.linkedin.com/company/third-horizon-strategies</a> For more information about live events, webinars, and other updates on the work of HC3, visit <a href="www.HC3.Health" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.HC3.Health</a>.

Advancing Access to Health Care with Stephanie Willding, CommunityHealth

In this episode of the HC3 podcast, Co-hosts David Smith and Meghan Phillipp sat down with the cofounders of one of HC3’s long-time community partners – <a href="https://www.acclivusinc.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Acclivus</a>. Acclivus is a community health organization that employs grassroots leaders from Chicago to support safety, well-being, and growth in vulnerable communities, focusing strategically on primary and secondary violence intervention. President and CEO, Levon Stone Senior and COO, Sheila Regan have been on the front lines of violence interruption for many years. They have continued to build upon their personal and professional experiences to cultivate Acclivus’ intentional social network to engage with and support vulnerable individuals and design interventions that simultaneously address risk factors to maximize their impact. Follow HC3 on X (formerly Twitter) <a href="https://twitter.com/hc3chicago" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@HC3Chicago</a> and on LinkedIn: <a href="www.linkedin.com/company/hc3" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.linkedin.com/company/hc3</a> HC3 is administratively and strategically managed as an initiative of Third Horizon Strategies. Third Horizon is a Chicago-based but nationally present boutique advisory firm focused on shaping the future state of health care. Follow Third Horizon Strategies on X (formerly Twitter) <a href="https://twitter.com/3rdhorizonstrat" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@3rdHorizonStrat</a>&nbsp;and on LinkedIn: <a href="www.linkedin.com/company/third-horizon-strategies" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.linkedin.com/company/third-horizon-strategies</a> This episode of the HC3 podcast is brought to you by Rosecrance Health Network. Rosecrance is a private, not-for-profit organization offering behavioral health services for children, adolescents, adults, and families throughout the country. With more than 45 locations in Chicago and Northern Illinois, Wisconsin, and Iowa, Rosecrance offers comprehensive addiction services for adolescents and adults, including prevention, intervention, detoxification, inpatient and outpatient treatment, experiential therapies, dual-diagnosis care, and family education. Rosecrance also offers high-quality, efficient, and effective outpatient mental health services for children, adults, and families through a variety of programs. Rosecrance serves more than 30,000 families each year. Learn more about Rosecrance at <a href="https://rosecrance.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.rosecrance.org</a>. For more information about live events, webinars, and other updates on the work of HC3, visit <a href="https://www.hc3.health/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.HC3.Health</a>.

Violence as a Public Health Imperative with Sheila Regan and Levon Stone, Sr., Acclivus

The Health Care Council of Chicago’s (HC3) core purpose is to harness the collective intelligence and resources of Chicago’s health leaders and stakeholders to drive meaningful change and positively influence the conditions that impact the health of the city’s communities. In March 2023, HC3 is proud to launch a podcast series exploring how we leverage our resources to catalyze sustainable, durable health care solutions that help achieve health equity in Chicago and beyond. Led by David Smith, co-founder of HC3, Founder and CEO of Third Horizon Strategies (THS), and host of the Cost of Care Podcast, alongside Meghan Phillipp, Executive Director of HC3 and VP of Community Impact at THS, the HC3 Podcast will feature business leaders, health care providers, community members, and political advocates that are breaking down barriers, challenging the status quo and thinking differently to advance sustainable solutions and opportunities that build and support healthier communities.