Health Talks

On this episode of Health Talks, IPHCA's Associate Vice President of Healthcare Access + Emergency Preparedness, Paula Campbell is joined by Dr. Jennifer Seo, Pediatric Medicine Medical Advisor at Illinois Department of Public Health and Melissa Graven, The Immunize Illinois Coalition Manager at Illinois Public Health Association. They will discuss school vaccine requirements and the role vaccinations play in protecting student health. They also explain vaccine exemptions, how they work, and the potential children and families may face during a disease outbreak.

In this episode of Health Talks, we explore the complexities of providing high-quality, compassionate care for pregnant patients with Opioid Use Disorder (OUD). Featuring Dr. Alexis Braverman, a board-certified OBGYN at UI Health, the conversation dives into the practical application of the "5 Ps" screening tool and the clinical necessity of moving beyond traditional silos toward a fully integrated care model. We address the understandable fear surrounding DCFS involvement—and discuss evidence-based strategies to build patient rapport while navigating mandated reporting requirements. We offer actionable insights on how integrated care leads to measurably better outcomes for families in recovery.

On this episode of Health Talks, IPHCA's Behavioral Health/SUD Consultant, Stacy Agosto is joined by Dr. Kathleen McDonough and Dr. Mary Buswell from PCC Community Wellness Center who are both board certified in Family and Addiction Medicine. They share a wealth of knowledge on substance use disorders, including treatment and training.

Dr. McDonough and Dr. Buswell’s on demand training “Prescribing Buprenorphine: Putting Knowledge into Practice” can be found here: https://bit.ly/4cN0Omg

On this episode of Health Talks, IPHCA's Associate Vice President of Healthcare Access + Emergency Preparedness, Paula Campbell is joined by Dr. Sameer Vohra, Director at Illinois Department of Public Health, and Melissa Graven, The Immunize Illinois Coalition Manager at Illinois Public Health Association. They will examine the current state of immunizations in Illinois within the context of shifting federal policies. As changes to the immunization schedule and heightened media attention fuel the spread of misinformation, this discussion will deliver clear, credible information and outline how Illinois is actively addressing these challenges to protect public health.

On this episode of Health Talks, IPHCA's Behavioral Health/SUD Consultant, Stacy Agosto is joined by Maria Rahmandar, MD, Attending Physician Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine at Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago. Stacy and Maria discuss the strategies for working with Adolescents with SUD.

Maria Rahmandar will be presenting "Pills, Powders and Other Problems: Addressing Substance Use in Adolescents" on April 24, 2026. Details for this live webinar can be found on member.iphca.org

Today’s episode is part two of our two-part black history month special. We’re listening in on a conversation between Ollie Idowu, CEO of IPHCA, Reverand Pastor Brooks, CEO of Lawndale Christian Health Center, and Ken Burnett, CEO of Christian Community Health Center. In part one of our Black History Month series we heard them share their journeys, their challenges, and what gives them hope for the future of health care. In part two, we’ll continue exploring how these stories point toward meaningful change.

Today’s episode is part one of a two-part black history month special. We have Ollie Idowu, the CEO of IPHCA, Reverand Pastor Brooks, CEO of Lawndale Christian Health Center, and Ken Burnett, CEO of Christian Community Health Center. And they’ll be sharing their journeys as black leaders – both the challenges they face, and what gives them hope for the future of health care.

In the Season 4 finale hosts Raj and Alex lace up for a conversation about the power of movement—mind, body, and playlist. We get into how running or even just walking more can be a powerful tool for both mental and physical wellness. From pandemic-era habits and sunset jogs to run clubs, 10Ks, and impromptu stair workouts at breweries, Raj and Alex explore how movement fits into their lives and how listeners can carve out time for it too.

“Movement doesn’t have to be perfect,” Raj says, “it just has to feel good and fit your life.” Expect candid tips, favorite playlist jams (hello Dua Lipa, Chappell Roan, and Wicked), and creative ways to sneak in steps. Whether you're pacing through Zoom calls or using a walking pad under your desk. “Sometimes a run can be the best way to clear your head, even more than a nap,” Alex shares. Tune in for the laughs, insights, and a reminder that wellness isn’t all-or-nothing. It’s about doing what works for you. 

We’ll be back in 2026 with fresh episodes, bold stories, and even more ways to support your health and wellness journey. Stay tuned!

What does it really mean to hold space for yourself? Hosts Raj Savalia and Alexandra Kozar unpack the idea of self-compassion and the importance of making time to check in with your needs, especially in a world that rarely slows down. It’s not just about rest and routines. It’s about recognizing when you're being pulled in every direction and choosing, instead, to rise above the noise and tune in to what your mind and body truly need.

As Alex shares, “It’s giving yourself permission to care about yourself and make sure that you’re OK. That has to be your first priority.” Whether that means starting a fitness routine, reevaluating your relationship with rest, or letting go of perfectionism, this episode offers relatable strategies for building sustainable habits that keep you grounded and present. Raj adds, “If your roots aren’t strong, it’s hard to support the growth of others.” From lists and planners to evening walks and quiet routines, Raj and Alex explore how grounding yourself can help you lift off in other areas of life.

Tune in next week as we how we're "defying gravity one step at a time."

Food is more than fuel—it’s medicine. In this episode of Health Talks, we sit down with Janna Simon, Chief Program and Policy Officer at the Illinois Public Health Institute, to explore how food and nutrition programs are transforming healthcare across the state. From produce prescriptions to innovative community partnerships, Janna shares how IPHI’s Food is Medicine initiatives are improving health outcomes, addressing food insecurity, and bringing care beyond the clinic walls.

We also get into real examples of successful collaborations with Community Health Centers, tips for getting started with your own food and nutrition program, and how CHCs can play a leading role in connecting patients to healthy, nourishing food. Whether you're new to the concept or ready to expand your impact, this episode is packed with practical advice, hope, and a vision for what’s possible when healthcare and food systems come together.

Contact/Connect:
Join the Alliance for Health Equity: https://www.allhealthequity.org/contact
Join the Illinois Alliance to Promote Opportunities for Health: https://bit.ly/IAPOHform
Contact IPHI: [email protected] 

Produce Prescription Resources:

• Produce Prescription Project Readiness Checklist, created for the Michigan Farmers Market Association via the Nutrition Incentive Hub: https://www.nutritionincentivehub.org/media/e3tnbckg/produce-prescription-project-readiness-checklist_final.pdf
• The Prescription for Health Program Implementation Guide from the Washtenaw County, MI Health Department: https://www.nutritionincentivehub.org/media/lxubhj45/prescription-for-health-implementation-guide.pdf

 Learn more about Food is Medicine: https://aspenfood.org/fim/