Letter from the IOMC President Lorenzo Pence, DO, FACOFP, FAODME

A MESSAGE TO OUR FELLOWS and COLLEAGUES 

Dear Fellow and Colleagues:

Happy New Year! The Institute of Medicine of Chicago is proud to continue its commitment to advancing health equity by reducing healthcare disparities. This powerful mission has the potential to significantly increase access to care and positively influence the immediate future in 2026.

I invite you to join us for the 10th State of Health of Chicago on January 21, 2026, as IOMC launches its initiatives for the year. The 10^th State of Health of Chicago convening is an excellent way to begin 2026—gathering to discuss the most pressing health challenges facing our communities, including population and community health. Our eight-speaker panel will offer a range of diverse perspectives and insights.

Currently, our communities face complex issues: vaccine confusion, rising maternal and child health challenges, opioid problems, an increased need for preventive medicine, behavioral health episodes, debates over fluoride, recurring gun violence, more support for homelessness, limited support for veterans, and lead exposure—particularly among children. The question remains: what can we do to make an effective impact, and how?

Aligned with our mission, the 10th State of Health of Chicago will address pressing health issues facing Chicago and Illinois. Our goal is to define what actions we can take, where to focus our efforts, and how to collaborate effectively to advance health equity, improve access to care, and reduce healthcare disparities. These points align with IOMC’s mission.

Biennial Event – 10th State of Health of Chicago

Challenges and Opportunities to Advance Our Community's Health

January 21, 2026  5:00 – 8:00 PM CT

Challenges + Communication + Collaboration = Impact

The event will feature a dynamic panel discussion, networking opportunities, and a convivial atmosphere with delicious small plates and spirits.

Open to all—academics, clinicians, legislators, policymakers, nurses, pharmacists, advocates, payors, social workers, community workers, healthcare providers, agencies, students, and more.

This event provides a summary of the challenges that leaders and communities are facing and allows you to bring this valuable information back to your workplace for continued discussion. IOMC leverages the expertise of its diverse membership and regional leaders to address critical health issues through interdisciplinary approaches—education, research, the dissemination of trusted information, and community engagement.  Be part of the discussion - attend and participate in the discussion with our panelists. All are welcome.

Eight-speaker panel moderated by Ryan Voyles, Health News Illinois.

• Dr. Arti Barnes, MD, Chief Medical Officer, Illinois Dept. of Public Health
• Dr. Kimberley Darey, MD, CEO, Endeavor Health Elmhurst Hospital
• Mr. Ollie Idowu, JD, MPH, President + CEO, Illinois Primary Health Care Association 
• Dr. Simbo Ige, MD, MPH, Commissioner of the City of Chicago - Public Health
• Dr. Ian Jasenof, MD, FACOG, MHA, CPE, Chief Medical Officer, Mile Square Center, University of Illinois Health Center
• Dr. Doriane Miller, MD, Director, Center for Community Health & Vitality, University of Chicago Medical Center
• Ms. Sana Syal, MPH, Senior Director of Programs & Strategic Impact Leader, Greater Chicago Food Depository
• Dr. Lauren Smith, MD, MBA, Chief Medical Officer, Cook County Health 

I will share updates and challenges during the next few months.  Together, our efforts can make a difference. Our goal is to advance health equity within our population and community.  

Let's meet on January 21^st begin this year to work together effectively.  I look forward to meeting you there.  In addition, we have a robust lineup of webinars, programs, and initiatives planned for 2026. Follow our news, participate in programs and consider joining a committee or workgroup.

Sincerely,

Institute of Medicine of Chicago

Lorenzo Pence, DO, FACOFP, FAODME                                       

President, Billings Fellow

SVP, Osteopathic Accreditation, Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education