IHA Daily Briefing: October 8

Federal Investigation Targets Imported Medical Devices and Equipment

The U.S. Dept. of Commerce (DOC) has launched an investigation to determine the effects on the national security of imports of personal protective equipment (PPE), medical consumables and medical equipment, including devices. The probe covers a broad range of healthcare products, including diagnostic imaging systems, surgical instruments, PPE, wheelchairs and pacemakers, among others.

Under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act, the Commerce Department will evaluate whether dependence on imported medical goods threatens the domestic healthcare supply chain or undermines U.S. production capacity. The investigation could result in new tariffs, quotas, or other trade restrictions on imported medical devices and related products. Pharmaceuticals, such as prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, biologics and specialty drugs, will not be covered under this investigation as those imports are being examined in a separate Section 232 investigation.

As part of this process, the DOC is collecting public comments from stakeholders to help inform its final recommendations. Hospitals, health systems, and healthcare organizations are encouraged to submit comments describing how potential tariffs could affect patient care, supply chain stability, and healthcare costs. Public comments can be submitted through the federal rulemaking portal here by Oct. 17, 2025.

IHA has been in communication with the American Hospital Association (AHA) on this issue; AHA is aggressively urging the administration to exempt these devices from the tariffs. IHA urges hospital leaders to review the notice and submit input before the public comment deadline, emphasizing the importance of reliable, affordable access to essential medical devices and products for patient care across Illinois and the nation.

Healing Communities: Franklin Hospital Partners to Train Rural Clinicians

To strengthen the rural healthcare workforce, Franklin Hospital has partnered with local organizations to recruit, train, and inspire future clinicians and meet the healthcare needs of Benton and surrounding rural communities.

Franklin Hospital's partnership with Rend Lake College gives students in nursing, phlebotomy and radiology opportunities to apply what they learn in the classroom at the bedside through rounding with hospital clinicians.

"Our hope is that by collaborating with local educational institutions, offering incentives, and highlighting the benefits of rural healthcare, we inspire students to serve our local community and join our team when they complete the education," the hospital said.

Hospital staff also collaborate with John A. Logan College to help equip phlebotomy students with the knowledge, skills and attitudes essential to providing high-quality patient care. In 2024, Franklin Hospital launched a Medical Explorers Post for high school and college students. The program showcases healthcare careers and gives students the chance to participate in hands-on activities and meet healthcare professionals.

Additional recruitment strategies include scholarship programs for nursing and respiratory therapy and a summer externship for future nurses. After graduation and licensure, scholarship recipients must work at the hospital for two years.

"As we prepare for future opportunities and challenges, Franklin Hospital is committed to doing the best we can to serve our community with excellence and provide quality healthcare, close to home," Franklin Hospital CEO James Johnson says in a message on the hospital website.

IHA's Healing Communities: Hospital Stories webpage features the good work of hospitals across Illinois. Submit your hospital's or health system's story to Valerie Culver, Assistant Vice Presidents, Corporate Communications and Marketing, at [email protected].

IHA's Healing Communities campaign focuses on four pillars representing the positive impact of hospitals and health systems beyond care provided in the hospital setting. The pillars are: driving local economies, addressing community needs, providing accessible care and training future clinicians.

Notable Risk Factors Associated with Candida auris Cases

Candida auris (C. auris) has become a major public health concern, particularly among medically vulnerable populations. A recent study highlights seven risk factors that can contribute to C. auriscases. Published recently in Clinical Infectious Diseases, researchers identified factors significantly associated with progression to clinical cases including five or more comorbid conditions; four or more invasive devices; three or more recent medical procedures; fully dependent care required for eating; limited mobility; and transfer restrictions.

Study authors said that identifying these risk factors could help "facilities implement efficient testing protocols and infection prevention and control measures." Healthcare facilities were encouraged to prioritize high-acuity patients for early C. auris screening, transmission-based precautions and infection interventions.

IDOR Warns of New Text Message Scam Soliciting Banking Information

In response to the significant rise in fake text messages impersonating state revenue departments, the Illinois Dept. of Revenue (IDOR) is warning taxpayers about a new nationwide text message scam targeting individuals with fraudulent messages that appear to come from state revenue or treasury agencies. This latest phishing scheme involves unsolicited, urgent text messages claiming that a tax refund has been processed. Recipients are then asked to provide or verify their personal banking information under the threat of losing a state refund.

IDOR emphasized it does not send unsolicited text messages asking for banking or personal information, and primarily communicates through official correspondence sent through the U.S. Postal Service or through MyTax Illinois, the department's secure and free online account management platform. Unsolicited messages that claim to be from IDOR and arrive by text, email, or social media, particularly those requesting personal or financial information, should be considered fraudulent and ignored. Taxpayers should avoid clicking on any links and delete any message(s).

Taxpayers who have questions about their Illinois refunds, account balances, or any correspondence received should verify that information directly with IDOR at tax.illinois.gov or by calling 1-800-732-8866.