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INSTITUTE OF MEDICINE OF CHICAGO

The Institute of Medicine of Chicago, founded in 1915,  is an independent  501c3  non-profit organization of distinguished leaders in the health field who collaborate to improve the health of the public. Drawing upon the expertise of a diverse membership and other regional leaders, the IOMC addresses critical health issues through a range of interdisciplinary approaches including education, research, communication of trusted information, and community engagement. With public health at its core, IOMC is building new programs and services to better meet the needs of its members, Chicago, counties, and the State of Illinois community.

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The Institute of Medicine of Chicago is a dynamic, forward moving association that unites industry leaders, community advocacy groups, and experts throughout the Chicagoland area and the State of Illinois. Our Fellows—comprising clinicians, doctors, dentists, pharmacists, nurses, lawyers, policymakers, advocates, academic leaders, hospital leaders, academics, industry leaders and executives—are dedicated to driving meaningful change and who play a role in the transforming the public and healthcare field. 

The Institute focuses sharply on critical areas such as access to care, behavioral health, maternal and child health, homelessness, and social determinants of health, as well as addressing social challenges and improving resources for better health outcomes. Through decisive collaborative discussions and rigorous evidence-based strategies, the Institute is committed to tackling disparities and transforming healthcare in our communities. More>

2026 — From the president's Desk 

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


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. 

A heartfelt thank you to our exceptional healthcare and public health panelists who illuminated the 10th State of Health of Chicago with their expertise and vision on January 21, 2026. The 90-minute interactive discussion buzzed with energy, sparking thoughtful questions, spirited comments, and genuine engagement from all participants. Beyond the insightful conversation, the event fostered meaningful connections and new collaborations. We are deeply grateful to everyone who joined us and helped make the 10th State of Health of Chicago a resounding success.

The outstanding healthcare & public health panel was 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 

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. 

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.  

IOMC has a robust lineup of webinars, programs, and initiatives planned for 2026. Follow our news, participate in programs and consider joining a committee or workgroup. If you are interested in joining a committee or workgroup, contact the IOMC office by sending an email to contactus@iomc.org.

Sincerely,

Institute of Medicine of Chicago


Lorenzo Pence, DO, FACOFP, FAODME                                       

President, Billings Fellow

SVP, Osteopathic Accreditation, Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education


    

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IOMC PRESIDENT

                                                                                             IOMC is a 501c3 Nonprofit organization.  Tax ID 36-2217993.  

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