The strategies, solutions and policies designed for urban communities are often ineffective for rural communities. Unique rural geography, communities and challenges necessitate a thoughtful approach when it comes to improving health care. A free webinar on May 19 from noon-1 p.m. CST will address rural communities’ unique needs and highlight some rural-specific innovations in policy and design that have emerged from the pandemic. Dr. Sameer Vohra, chair of SIU Medicine’s Department of Population Science and Policy , will join southern Illinois native Eric D. Hargan, former deputy secretary

SIU School of Medicine will host its 48th Annual Commencement ceremony at 11 a.m., Saturday, May 21. Students will receive diplomas at the UIS Performing Arts Center in Springfield.

Medical student Barra Madden had dreams of becoming a professional dancer until personal and familial health challenges forever changed her life – and career path.

Medical student Barra Madden had dreams of becoming a professional dancer until personal and familial health challenges forever changed her life – and career path.

Medical student Barra Madden had dreams of becoming a professional dancer until personal and familial health challenges forever changed her life – and career path.

Graduate students from the Department of Pharmacology organized a stimulating Brain Awareness Day at Franklin Middle School on April 22.

“Derm is so competitive, most of us were nervous that we could even get into the field. I’d ranked into my dream specialty, and I really wanted to come to SIU.”

“Derm is so competitive, most of us were nervous that we could even get into the field. I’d ranked into my dream specialty, and I really wanted to come to SIU.”

A VOICE FOR RURAL INNOVATION The Innovating Illinois Rural Health Event Series highlighted innovation and shared best practices to inform rural health delivery and improve the social, economic and environmental factors that contribute to health in rural communities. SIU Medicine Department of Population Science and Policy, along with its partners Southern Illinois Healthcare and SIU School of Law, hosted virtual and in-person events throughout 2022, starting with an April roundtable webinar focused on the intersection of health and economic development in rural communities. The hybrid format

May is Mental Health Awareness month and also coincides with the spring planting season.