Illinois State Medical Society

09/03/2026

IDFPR ALERT: Baxter issues voluntary nationwide recall for two lots of 0.9% sodium chloride injection due to potential presence of particulate matter.

Learn More: https://tinyurl.com/Voluntary-Nationwide-Recall

09/02/2026

NEW BILL SIGNED INTO LAW: New legislation supported by ISMS will help protect patients at risk of blindness and vision loss. The new law prohibits insurers from denying certain prescription eye drop refills, recognizing the medical necessity of timely treatment and prioritizing appropriate medical management. Learn more: https://buff.ly/SC5TwEV

08/31/2026

The Illinois Department of Public Health has reaffirmed the state’s existing child immunization schedule, continuing to follow science-based recommendations designed to protect Illinois children from vaccine-preventable diseases. Read more: https://buff.ly/zyKmszZ

08/31/2026

ISMS members receive discounts on services from electronic payment processing expert TSYS. TSYS will set up your specific patient payment acceptance needs. Learn more about our member benefits partners here: https://buff.ly/9qk0rql

08/29/2026

RECALL NOTICE: Federal authorities are sharing a recall notice for one company’s sodium chloride injections due to the potential presence of fiberglass particles.

In a statement shared by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Baxter International Inc. announced the company is recalling two lots of 0.9% sodium chloride injection due to particulate matter found in the solution, which the company has identified as fiberglass.

The product is packaged in 500 mL VIAFLEX Plastic Containers, with 24 units per case.

Customers who encounter this product should immediately discontinue use and return all affected units in accordance with their facility’s process.
https://buff.ly/UJltbVe

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – AUG. 25, 2026 – DEERFIELD, Ill., Baxter International Inc. (NYSE:BAX) is voluntarily recalling two lots of 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection due to the potential presence of particulate matter identified as fiberglass in the solution.

08/28/2026

State leaders have made great strides in highlighting the importance of mental health and mental health resources for Illinoisans in recent years.

Unfortunately looks like health insurance companies are targeting the very professionals who are doing the most to help.

Click below to read an exclusive article about the sudden surge in downcoded claims by some health insurers — with psychiatrists currently being hit hardest.

https://buff.ly/jgzXPBC

08/26/2026

Downcoding is front-page news.

The Chicago Sun-Times has an exclusive article this morning about the sudden surge in downcoded claims by some health insurers.

It’s exactly the kind of practice that would be prohibited under ISMS-backed Transparency in Downcoding Act, which goes into effect on January 1, 2028.

Unfortunately, it looks like patients are suffering in the meantime.

Click the link below to read more about how this sudden change is harming patients and practitioners alike.

https://buff.ly/5Unuvqm

08/24/2026

New Illinois downcoding reforms take effect in 2028. Has your practice noticed health insurers gaming the system in advance of the new protections?
If you’ve seen a recent increase in downcoded claims, consider filing a complaint through the Illinois Department of Insurance here: https://buff.ly/sKiCxJE

08/23/2026

As your family gets ready for a new school year, don’t forget to save on prescription medications!” Visit www.Rx4Miracles.org for more information

08/21/2026

Registration is open for the American Medical Association Aug. 27 Distinguish Yourself IMG Summit in Chicago. This event will feature IMG-specific education sessions on leadership, research, advocacy and preparing for the Match as an IMG. https://buff.ly/kj6tecD

The AMA's Distinguish Yourself IMG Summit will feature IMG-specific education sessions on leadership, research, advocacy and preparing for the Match as an IMG.