Illinois Pharmacists Association (IPhA)

11/21/2025

No asterisk needed, the science has not changed. There is no link between autism and vaccines.

In Illinois, we follow scientific evidence, and the science is clear: vaccines are safe, effective, and save lives. Unfortunately, the nation is seeing our federal government, once again, reject established research and cause confusion about long debunked claims between autism and vaccines. Yesterday, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s website was changed to add inaccurate information linking vaccines to autism.

More than 40 high-quality studies, involving millions of individuals, have shown no link between vaccines and autism. At the same time, both real-world experience and decades of research confirm that vaccines safely and reliably prevent diseases like Measles, Influenza, Chickenpox, Pertussis, Hepatitis B, Polio, and more. Without vaccination, these infections can lead to severe complications including pneumonia, brain swelling, paralysis, and death.

Disinformation not only undermines trust; it may discourage families from seeking the protection that routine immunizations provide. It also perpetuates harmful stigma against individuals with autism and their families, while doing nothing to advance scientific understanding. People with autism are valued members of our communities, and they deserve our respect.

In Illinois, we remain committed to evidence-based practices and credible, transparent communication. For more information about vaccines, visit the IDPH Immunization page or ask your healthcare provider: https://dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/prevention-wellness/immunization.html

11/21/2025

🏡 Rural health is public health.

Did you know 82 of Illinois’ 102 counties are considered rural? These communities are the backbone of our state — from growing our food to caring for our neighbors — yet they often face unique health challenges.

Rural residents experience higher rates of heart disease, cancer, and chronic illness, along with barriers like limited access to care, longer travel distances, and fewer local providers.

At IDPH, our Center for Rural Health is dedicated to improving access to quality health care and supporting the people and providers who serve rural communities. Through partnerships, advocacy, and programs like telemedicine and school-based health centers, we’re working to ensure every Illinoisan — no matter where they live — has the opportunity to live a healthy life. Help the Center for Rural Health celebrate National Rural Health Day today! ❤️

11/19/2025

🎉 A huge salute to IPhA member Allison Reichert, PharmD for representing Illinois pharmacists on the national stage! 👏

Allison testified before the U.S. House Ways & Means Subcommittee on Health during the hearing on “Modernizing Care Coordination to Prevent and Treat Chronic Disease.” She delivered powerful, real-world insight on the essential role pharmacists play in rural communities, drawing from her experience at Bode Drug.

Her testimony underscored what we know to be true:
Pharmacists are trusted care coordinators, chronic-disease partners, and critical access points for patients in underserved communities. Strengthening pharmacist scope, integrating pharmacy into care-coordination models, and ensuring fair reimbursement are key to building healthier rural Illinois communities.

Thank you, Allison, for your leadership, your service to rural patients, and for representing Illinois with excellence and conviction. Your voice is helping shape smarter, more equitable federal health policy. 🙌

Link to the Hearing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JTtzNzSXRjo

11/14/2025

🌍 World Diabetes Day 2025 — Diabetes and the Workplace

Today, we join communities across Illinois and around the world in recognizing World Diabetes Day 2025, highlighting this year’s theme: Diabetes and the Workplace.

Pharmacists play an essential role in supporting individuals living with diabetes—both inside and outside the workplace. From helping workers manage medications and access supplies to providing education, screenings, and ongoing support, pharmacy teams are often the most accessible partners in maintaining health while balancing daily job demands.

Community pharmacies are delivering DSMES, NDPP, cardiovascular risk reduction services, and workplace wellness support, helping employees stay healthier, prevent complications, and remain active in the workforce.

As workplaces continue to evolve, ensuring access to diabetes care—including reliable pharmacy services—is critical to helping Illinois residents thrive personally and professionally.

👟 Take action today: Talk with your pharmacist about screenings, prevention programs, and strategies to better manage diabetes while meeting the demands of everyday life.

11/11/2025

On Veterans Day, we honor the brave men and women who have served our country with courage and commitment.

IPhA extends our deepest gratitude to all veterans, including those serving in our pharmacy community, whose dedication to others continues long after their military service.

Thank you for protecting our freedoms and for continuing to care for Illinois communities. 🇺🇸

10/31/2025

Federal courts ordered the federal administration to continue paying for SNAP (food stamps) during the government shutdown. IDHS and the State of Illinois are reviewing these orders. SNAP benefits remain on hold by the federal government for November until further notice or order by the courts. Even if the courts order payment, it is uncertain how long it will take for SNAP payments to be made.

Benefits from months prior to November can still be used.

IDHS will keep customers updated on this evolving situation.

SNAP information and food resources are available here: SNAPfederalimpact.illinois.gov

10/31/2025

10/31/2025

🎃 Happy Halloween from IPhA!

👻💊 While ghosts and goblins may be scary… nothing is scarier than PBMs haunting patient access and pharmacy care. 🧛‍♂️

10/22/2025

👏 Thank you to the UIC Retzky College of Pharmacy at Rockford students for your outstanding advocacy and for securing a proclamation from the Rockford City Council recognizing American Pharmacists Month!

Your efforts exemplify this year’s theme “Caring for Our Communities” and showcase how pharmacists and student pharmacists make a lasting difference through patient care, service, and leadership. 💊❤️

10/22/2025

👏 Thank you to the Midwestern University CPDG APhA-ASP Chapter for advocating for our profession and the official recognition for American Pharmacists Month from the Downers Grove City Council!

Your advocacy highlights this year’s theme “Caring for Our Communities” and celebrates the vital role pharmacists play in protecting health, advancing access, and strengthening the communities we serve. 💊💙

council_meeting

10/22/2025

Congratulations!

10/22/2025

Today we celebrate the incredible Pharmacy Technicians who keep our profession running strong! 💊💪

As we recognize Pharmacy Technician Day during American Pharmacists Month, we honor the teamwork and dedication that powers every pharmacy in Illinois — from community and hospital settings to long-term care and specialty practice.

Pharmacy Technicians are the heart of patient care — ensuring accuracy, safety, and compassion in every prescription.

Thank you for your unwavering commitment to excellence and for standing strong beside pharmacists in advancing health for all.