Public Health Leaders Gather to Discuss Challenges and Solutions in the Midst of an Epidemic Phase

In April, health experts gathered at Northwestern University’s Chicago campus to discuss the latest challenges in public health. The fifth annual Population Health Forum hosted by the Institute for Public Health and Medicine was a platform for public health leaders, scientists, students, and stakeholders to exchange ideas and insights from the field.

Ronald T Ackermann, MD, MPH, the director of the Institute, emphasized the importance of addressing pressing issues such as maternal health, racial disparities, and endemic violence. He highlighted the impact of the transition to an endemic phase of the coronavirus pandemic on mental health, violence, and infectious diseases like measles. These challenges are particularly concerning for vulnerable populations such as immigrants, refugees, and unvaccinated individuals.

Keynote speaker Ngozi Ezike, MD, President and Chief Executive Officer of Sinai Chicago, emphasized the importance of educating the public about the broad scope of public health work. She highlighted that public health professionals have diverse responsibilities such as promoting healthy behaviors