Leaders to meet on improving Illinoisans’ health

State leaders in public health, urban planning and other sectors are gathering next week to brainstorm on how to collaborate to improve Illinoisans’ health.

Doing so in economic tough times is a challenge, and organizers say that means new, creative solutions are needed. The focus will be on things like high rates of obesity and chronic disease, tobacco and drug use, and mental health problems.

Participants include the governor’s senior health care policy advisor, Michael Gelder. Also attending will be representatives from county health departments and the head of the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning.

Tuesday’s event is at the planning agency office in Chicago.