Cook County Health, including Cook County Department of Public Health and CountyCare, was recognized with 19 Achievement Awards from the National Association of Counties (NACo) for its outstanding programs and initiatives that serve residents across Cook County. These prestigious awards highlight innovative and effective county government programs that enhance services and strengthen communities.

“The recognition by NACo underscores Cook County Health’s role as a national leader in advancing health equity and improving population health through collaboration, data-driven strategies, and sustainable practices,” said Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle.

Cook County Health’s award-winning programs span a wide range of health, equity, workforce development, and public health initiatives. Among this year’s recognized efforts are:

• Cook County HIV Integrated Programs
• Data Ambassadors Program
• Driving Healthcare Equity with Advanced Technology Solutions
• Eliminating Lead from Drinking Water for Illinois Families with Medicaid
• Emerging Leaders Program
• Empowering Nurses Through Engagement
• EMT-B Apprenticeship Program
• Good Food Purchasing Program
• Healthy Work Initiative, Worker Protection Program
• Neurocritical Care
• Nursing Innovation & Research Center
• Office of Behavioral Health
• Providing Health Benefits for Immigrant Adults and Immigrant Seniors
• Revenue Cycle Management’s Turnaround Project
• Stroger Hospital Emergency Department Entrance and Site Upgrades
• Surgical Robotic Program
• Unfriend Tobacco Media Campaign
• Value Based Care Program
• Women and Children’s Service Line

“These initiatives reflect Cook County Health’s commitment to accessible, high-quality, and equity-driven healthcare for all Cook County residents. From cutting-edge surgical technology to community-centered public health campaigns, the programs exemplify excellence in public service and innovation in healthcare delivery,” said Cook County Health CEO Dr. Erik Mikaitis.

Since 1970, NACo’s Achievement Awards have honored exemplary programs in a non-competitive application process across 18 categories. The awards reflect the critical role that county governments play in delivering essential services and addressing the evolving needs of their populations.