In this edition of the HC3 Podcast, we dive into the intricate challenges at the crossroads of access to quality health care and public health, particularly as they shape the future of health in Chicago and Illinois. The interplay between health care access and public health is profound, with disparities in one realm often compounding issues in the other. As we gaze into the future of health in Chicago and Illinois, addressing these intertwined challenges becomes paramount Joining us in this episode is Dr. Ngozi Ezike, a distinguished health care leader who has firsthand experience navigating these complexities. Dr. Ezike’s insights will shed light on the intersection of health care access and public health, influencing the path of health outcomes in our communities.

Dr. Ngozi Ezike began serving as President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Sinai Chicago, the largest private safety net health system in the state of Illinois, in June 2022. Dr. Ezike is the immediate past Director of the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), where she valiantly navigated the state through the Covid-19 pandemic. Dr. Ezike is a board-certified internist and pediatrician, who worked at Cook County Health, serving for more than 15 years in various direct patient care and administrative roles, including medical directorships at the Austin Health Center and the Juvenile Temporary Detention Center. She also delivered inpatient care at Stroger Hospital and primary and preventive care in community and school-based clinics.

Dr. Ezike is a nationally recognized healthcare and public health leader fueled with passion for health equity. In addition to her degrees from Harvard University and the University of California – San Diego School of Medicine, Dr. Ezike holds honorary doctorates from Knox College, Southern Illinois University, and Rosalind Franklin School of Medicine. She earned a business management certificate from Harvard Business School.

Dr. Ezike is the recipient of dozens of awards and accolades including the 55th Annual Harvard Club of Chicago Award, the Lester H. McKeever Individual Service Award from the Chicago Urban League, Motorola Civic Service Award, the Jane Addams Medal of Freedom, and USA Today’s Inaugural Women of the Year Award for the State of Illinois.

An advocate for promoting self-care and healthy living, particularly in challenging times, Dr. Ezike loves spending time with her husband and four children, playing tennis, and traveling.

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This episode of the HC3 podcast is brought to you by Third Horizon Strategies. HC3 is administratively and strategically managed as an initiative of Third Horizon Strategies. Third Horizon is a Chicago-based but nationally present boutique advisory firm focused on shaping the future state of health care. www.ThirdHorizonStrategies.com

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