IHA Daily Briefing: August 7

HFS Announces Work to Update Child Support System
The Illinois Dept. of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) announced

this week its Division of Child Support Services (CSS) is working on a major system modernization effort as part of a forthcoming transition to a new child support technology system intended to improve the user experience and make it easier to find information. The new customer portal will give those served by CSS more real-time information about their cases, with the goal of improving case management for all parties involved. HFS said it will also improve internal data and processes, allowing CSS to better serve customers. HFS' CSS serves more than 310,000 Illinois families and nearly 500,000 children throughout the state of Illinois. More than $1.1 billion is collected annually on behalf of families served.

Rural Mobile Healthcare Toolkit
A new Rural Mobile Healthcare Toolkit offers guidance and resources for organizations developing mobile healthcare programs in rural communities across the United States. The toolkit compiles evidence-based practices, promising program models, and real-world examples to help providers expand access to care through mobile services. The resource includes modules focused on program development, implementation, evaluation, sustainability and sharing outcomes. It is designed to help rural communities plan, launch and maintain mobile healthcare programs that address local healthcare access needs.

Building Healthier Communities for Men Listening Sessions and Survey
The Illinois Dept. of Public Health (IDPH) and the University of Illinois System are seeking to learn more about men's health across Illinois. Click here to access information on a related Statewide Men's Health Needs Assessment Survey, as well as dates, locations, and details for upcoming in-person and virtual listening sessions being held throughout the state. Each session will be facilitated by University of Illinois and IDPH staff, with the goal of learning from community members and engaging stakeholders in discussion on men's health needs, barriers to care, outreach strategies, and recommendations for programs, services, and an overall strategic plan for men's health. Click here for more information.

Applications Open for New National Award Honoring Age-Friendly Care Leaders
The American Hospital Association (AHA) and The John A. Hartford Foundation have launched the inaugural AHA Age-Friendly Healthcare Impact Award, recognizing hospitals and health systems advancing excellence in care for older adults through the 4Ms Framework-What Matters, Medication, Mentation and Mobility. This national award offers organizations an opportunity to be recognized as among the first leaders shaping the future of age-friendly care and improving outcomes for adults 65 and older. Organizations selected for the award will be recognized by peers and colleagues across healthcare for their dedication to high-quality, age-friendly care. Applications are due Sept. 25. Learn more and apply here.

Illinois Respiratory Disease Surveillance Data