IL HB2896

Creates the Diversity in Health Care Professions Task Force within the Department of Public Health, chaired by the Department Director.

Task Force membership includes 16 licensed healthcare professionals: 2 each of dentists, medical doctors, nurses, optometrists, pharmacists, physician assistants, podiatrists, and public health practitioners.

Task Force objectives include recruiting minority students to healthcare careers, establishing mentorship programs, researching best practices for workplace diversity and inclusion, and developing healthcare leadership succession planning.

Identifies seven priorities including designing affirmative action programs for medical school enrollment, supporting racial and ethnic diversity in recruitment, beginning recruitment efforts in elementary school, and increasing financial incentives for minority students.

Task Force members serve without compensation but may be reimbursed for expenses; must meet quarterly and submit reports to the Governor and General Assembly by December 1, 2020 and annually thereafter.