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Advocate to put $1 billion toward addressing health disparities on Chicago’s South Side

by Gus Iversen, Editor in Chief | December 24, 2024
Business Affairs
Advocate Health Care plans to invest $1 billion to improve access to health care and wellness services on Chicago’s South Side, one of the largest community-driven health investments in the nation.

The initiative, shaped by extensive community input, aims to address health inequities and improve life expectancy in the region.

Key initiatives of the investment:
New hospital construction: A $300 million state-of-the-art facility will replace the aging Advocate Trinity Hospital, incorporating advanced technology and sustainability measures, including LEED certification and carbon neutrality.

Outpatient expansion: Over $500 million will be devoted to adding 10 new Neighborhood Care locations and a mobile medicine vehicle, increasing annual appointments by 85,000.

Chronic disease management: Programs will target conditions like diabetes and hypertension, which disproportionately affect South Side residents.

Maternal health: Expanded OB-GYN services aim to increase access to pre- and postnatal care, addressing Black maternal and fetal health disparities.

Social determinants of health: Initiatives include a Food Farmacy program, pharmacy kiosks, and enhanced transportation options for patients.

Advocate also plans to hire more than 1,000 employees over three years and allocate $25 million toward workforce development. Job forums and recruitment programs will connect residents with career opportunities in health care.

Advocate leaders emphasized the collaborative nature of the initiative. “This model was codeveloped with the community to ensure it meets real needs,” said Michelle Blakely, president of Advocate Trinity Hospital. "It’s about providing resources that support health where people live, work, and worship.”

The South Side’s new hospital is expected to open in the coming years, with ongoing care at Advocate Trinity Hospital until the transition is complete. The current site will eventually be repurposed into green space.

The investment includes building a new state-of-the-art hospital at the former U.S. Steel South Works site, expanding outpatient services, and enhancing programs for chronic disease management. The plan was informed by 20 listening sessions involving hundreds of South Side residents.

“Our commitment to equity is rooted in the urgent need to address the health disparity gap on the South Side,” said Dia Nichols, president of Advocate Health Care. “This investment reflects our promise to provide equitable care for generations to come.”

Local leaders praised the initiative as a transformative step toward equity. “This investment represents hope and opportunity for the South Side,” said Mayor Brandon Johnson.

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