Public Health
As a physician-led organization, the Illinois State Medical Society (ISMS) works with our members to advocate for the health, rights, and well-being of Illinois patients. With quality patient care in mind, physicians guide ISMS policy and action with regulators, legislators, and insurance companies.
There are many issues important to the health of Illinois patients, which is why patients, physicians and medical groups rely on ISMS to BE HEARD in Illinois. This is accomplished through the work of our numerous councils and committees and by operating with various stakeholders throughout the state. These efforts consist of the piloting and coordination of public health messaging and awareness, educational campaigns, and the crafting of effective patient, physician, and medical practice resources.
Examples of ISMS championed public health initiatives include:
Tobacco Use: ISMS supported legislation to raise the smoking age in Illinois to 21, which includes electronic cigarettes, and supported legislation banning smoking in cars when minors are present.
Legalization of Adult Use Cannabis: As a direct result of ISMS’ advocacy, 11 crucial patient safety provisions were included in the law. These protections, among other things, included labeling requirements, maximum THC levels, anti-contamination standards, advertising restrictions and local control.
To see ISMS’ specific work on more public health issues, please view our legislative reports.
Currently Tracked Bills
ISMS Supports
Helping with Chronic Pain: SB 3491 and HB 5373 (Sponsors: Sen. Laura Fine, Rep. Kelly Cassidy) - The bill amends the Illinois Controlled Substances Act codifies that decisions regarding the treatment of patients experiencing chronic pain shall be made by the treating physician, with dispensing by the pharmacist in accordance with the corresponding responsibility as described in federal regulations and Illinois’ administrative rules. The bill amends the Illinois Controlled Substance Act and adds a new section regarding treatment of chronic pain and states that ordering, prescribing, dispensing, administering, or paying for controlled substances shall not be predetermined by specific morphine milligram equivalents. The bill also clarifies that information from the state’s prescription monitoring program can only be released to law enforcement pursuant to a court order or subpoena. HB 5373 has passed House Committee and is on House floor for further action. SB 3491 remains in Senate Assignments Committee.