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The Southland Health Care Forum (the Forum) was initiated in 2000. The hospital industry is a major employer in the region, and one of its most powerful economic engines. The Chief Executives from eight community hospitals attended the initial meeting, and the group has since grown to include 10 hospitals. Forum members work together on a multi-issue, regional program which includes the growing crisis of staff shortages in nursing and allied health care occupations, and providing services to the uninsured and underinsured. The Forum incorporated as a separate, Illinois 501 C 3 non-profit organization in 2003.

It is the only regional hospital collaboration of its kind in Illinois, serving more than 80 communities in the south and southwest suburbs of Chicago, including Joliet and Kankakee.

We began by identifying the most important common issues facing health care providers in the region, and gathered supporting data. Findings included: 

• Staffing needs:  more than 1,000 unfilled positions at southland hospitals.

• Kid Care enrollment: very low compared to number of eligible children.

• Cost of unreimbursed services provided: over $250 million, more than 20% of the total for the entire state of Illinois.

• Medicaid reimbursement rate:  only 65% of actual costs, with no increase in 10 years.

• Employees:  more than 20,000.

• Hospitals positive impact on the regional economy:  over $4 billion.

To increase public awareness, we have presented this and additional health care related information at annual Legislative Briefings attended by elected officials, other health care providers, the general public, and the press.

In an effort to address the growing health care staffing and diversity needs, we have obtained federal, state, county, and foundation funding to create and implement the Southland Health Careers program. It provides educational and supportive services to individuals enrolled in health care career courses at local community colleges. These services are designed to increase the graduation rate by providing assistance with education-related expenses. In addition, life skills training empowers students to be successful while still managing work and family responsibilities.
 

30 East 15th Street, Suite 405  I  Chicago Heights, Illinois 60411  I  708-756-1000 ext. 3442

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