A March of Dimes report showed that more than 33% of counties in Illinois are "Maternal Care Deserts" that lack hospitals with obstetric services, obstetricians or certified nurse-midwives. The #BlanketChange initiative advocates for greater investment in maternal care both before and after delivery.

A new law in Illinois mandates flu shots for those employed at more than 3,000 hospital and health care facilities and provides exceptions only for those with religious objections or a "medical problem that would be complicated by getting the vaccine." OSF Healthcare and Carle Foundation Hospital offer flu shots to all staff and have vaccination rates of about 90%, similar to the national average for hospital employees.

Do you know a nurse who deserves recognition? The Illinois Nurses Foundation has sponsored the Honor a Nurse campaign. Donate and honor a nurse who has inspired you, mentored you, fought for the advancement of the profession, stood by you, or who deserves recognition for their commitment to their patients and the work nurses do every day. Honor a nurse today.

The Illinois Nurses Foundation Holiday Gala & Fundraiser will be held Dec. 8 at the Lisle Hilton. Join us as we celebrate the accomplishments of individual nurses and the advancement of the profession. Again, this year we will award the "Nurse of the Year" from those honored in our Honor a Nurse program, which recognizes the everyday heroes in health care. Individual and table purchases available. Registration will open in October.