October 20, 2006
Volume 50, Issue 39
Wisconsin Hospitals Report Community Benefit Information
WHA launches www.wiServePoint.org October 18
With the launch of ServePoint on October 18, Wisconsin became the first state in the nation to have 100 percent of its hospitals voluntarily reporting quality, safety, price and now, community benefit information. All 132 Wisconsin hospitals completed the first community benefits survey, and shared almost 100 "real life" stories that help illustrate the depth of services that are provided at no cost or below cost in communities across the state.
The WHA Community Benefit Report showed that Wisconsin hospitals provided $900.4 million in community benefits and charity care in 2005, based on the nationally recognized CHA/VHA guidelines. WHA Senior Vice George Quinn said, "While the numbers are impressive, it is the stories that really drive the point home that Wisconsin’s mission-driven community hospitals are heavily invested in raising the health status of the communities they are privileged to serve."
According to the WHA Community Benefits Report, hospitals sponsored more than 50,000 community education and outreach programs in 2005 on topics ranging from asthma education to women’s health, spending more than $20 million on those activities. More than 20,000 people participated in cancer screenings, and 30,000 people received free diabetes testing. Hospitals underwrote nearly $7 million of expense and logged more than 80,000 visits at free and reduced fee clinics.
In total, Wisconsin hospitals provided almost $160 million in charity care (at cost), and sustained more than $500 million in Medicaid losses. The loss on Medicaid is the difference between what it costs hospitals to provide care to patients in this program, and the amount of reimbursement they receive from the state of Wisconsin. In addition, the 36 hospitals that operate nursing homes lost over $15 million on those operations.
"Whether it is providing financial assistance to patients with limited resources through charity care programs, or improving the access to essential or preventive health care services by sponsoring free clinics and health screenings, hospitals fulfill their missions by helping people live safer and healthier lives," said Wisconsin Hospital Association President Steve Brenton.
A 15-member WHA Task Force, chaired by Bob Fale, president, Agnesian HealthCare, developed the voluntary reporting program. The Task Force recommended organizing the community benefit report to correspond to the 11 health priorities contained in the Wisconsin State Health Plan. In addition, the report (available at www.wiServePoint.org/Documents/cb_Report_092006.pdf) includes a section on Hospital Disaster Readiness and Response.
The new Web site, www.wiServePoint.org, links users to information about Wisconsin hospitals and includes all the stories that WHA-member hospitals submitted as examples of the types of programs and services that they sponsor in their communities. WHA encourages hospitals to continue to send stories, photos, and links to their community benefit reports.
Political Action Fund Campaign Reaches 98 Percent of GoalThe political action fundraising campaign is near to reaching the goal at 98 percent. The 2006 campaign has raised $181,476.51 of the $185,000 goal. During the last month nearly $25,000 has been raised and 47 new contributors have been added. 617 individual contributors have donated to this year’s political action fundraising campaign compared to 525 in 2005, a 15 percent increase from this same time last year. Since 2001 total individual contributions have increased over 300 percent in six years.
Persons contributing this year have been and will continue to be published in The Valued Voice on a monthly basis as listed below. Contributors are listed by amount categories and in the order the contribution was received. The next publication of contributors in The Valued Voice will be in the November 17 edition.
For more information, contact Jenny Boese or Jodi Bloch at 608-274-1820.
Contributions Ranging from $1 - $249
Margan, Rob Wisconsin Hospital Association
Cutler, Dave WHA Financial Solutions, Inc.
Hoffman, Nancy Memorial Community Hospital, Edgerton
Gorczynski, Michael Aurora Health Care
Boes, Jody Door County Memorial Hospital
McKuen, Sandra Door County Memorial Hospital
Quade, Steve Door County Memorial Hospital
VanPay, Christa Door County Memorial Hospital
Sneath, Roger Columbus Community Hospital
Scieszinski, Robert Door County Memorial Hospital
Holub, Gregory Door County Memorial Hospital
Hemes, Lisa St. Elizabeth Hospital
Veeser, Tom Mercy Medical Center
Henning, Connie Hayward Area Memorial Hospital and Nursing Home
Zeller, Brad Spooner Health System
Steen, Sylvia St. Mary’s Hospital of Superior
Schraufnagel, Patricia Memorial Medical Center
Meysembourg, Len Spooner Health System
Bank, Carol Divine Savior Healthcare
Blackburn, Randee Chippewa Valley Hospital and Oakview Care Center
Coller, James St. Mary’s Hospital Medical Center
Anich, Matthew Memorial Medical Center
Erickson, Nancy St. Mary’s Hospital of Superior
Constable, Thomas ProHealth Care
Reinke, Kathy Shawano Medical Center
Sullivan, Anne Memorial Medical Center
Marcouiller, Don Memorial Medical Center
Klinge, Ann Memorial Medical Center
Albers, Kirstin Meriter Hospital
Myers, Robert Vernon Memorial Healthcare
Whiteaker, Les Memorial Medical Center
Harrop, Pauline Meriter Hospital
Jacobsen, Joan Meriter Hospital
Pupanek, William Meriter Hospital
Rothfuss, James Meriter Hospital
Maersch, Nancy Meriter Hospital
Hammel, Jennifer Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Petersen, Mary Beth Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Meurer, John Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Lange, Mark Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Prince, Nancy Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Baer, James Shawano Medical Center
Scinto, Jeanne Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Dooley, Richard Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Frederickson, Terry Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Grunwald, Patricia Meriter Hospital
Kundinger, Ruth Flambeau Hospital
Boiso, David Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Burtch, Sue Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Fochs, Mary Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Rusch, Judith Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Adams, Daniel Memorial Medical Center
Frank, Martin Waukesha Memorial Hospital
Burgener, Jean Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Burgett, Lyle Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Nevers, Rick Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Skeans, John All Saints Healthcare
Olson, Keri St. Clare Hospital and Health Services
Herbert, William Meriter Hospital
Maroney, Lisa
Tracey, Robert Franciscan Skemp Healthcare-Sparta
Melby, Shirley Tri-County Memorial Hospital
Lorenz, Bruce Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Garavet, Scott Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Pittsley, Kim Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Campbell-Kelz, Nancy Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Carrier-Diemer, Peggy Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Cohen, Joan Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Decker, Dawn Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Gantner, Sue Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Wojciechowski, Gary Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Brzezinski, Karen Good Samaritan Health Center, Merrill
Dittrich, Peggy Memorial Health Center
Franson, Patricia Meriter Hospital
Studer, Vince Shawano Medical Center
Watts, Susan St. Vincent Hospital
Roundy, Ann Columbus Community Hospital
Facey, Alice St. Clare Hospital and Health Services
Schaefer, Joyce Amery Regional Medical Center
Bouvat, Dale Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Peickert, Barbara Hayward Area Memorial Hospital and Nursing Home
Marnell, John Hudson Hospital
Smickley, Robert ProHealth Care
Mathews, Larry St. Vincent Hospital
Bliven, David Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Drengler, Kathryn Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Ellis, Nancy Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Erickson, Robert Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Gengler, Tim Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Hoege, Beverly Reedsburg Area Medical Center
Sio, Tim Meriter Hospital
Coblentz, Kathy Jo St. Joseph’s Community Health Services
Curdie, Ralph Tri-County Memorial Hospital
Mickelson, Ronald St. Clare Hospital and Health Services
Barry, Barbara Memorial Medical Center
Gutsch, Mike Memorial Health Center
Lyons, James Waukesha Memorial Hospital
Pinekenstein, Barbara Meriter Hospital
Gamroth, Charlotte Tri-County Memorial Hospital
Land, Andrew Agnesian HealthCare
Gilberg, Nina Hayward Area Memorial Hospital and Nursing Home
Buss, Diane St. Marys Hospital Medical Center
Beers, William St. Clare Hospital and Health Services
Elsen, Mary Pat St. Clare Hospital and Health Services
Johnson, Shirley Tri-County Memorial Hospital
Bjork, Ted Westfields Hospital
Theisen, Gary Agnesian HealthCare
McKevett, Timothy Beloit Memorial Hospital
Johnson, Patricia Hayward Area Memorial Hospital and Nursing Home
Ganahl, John Sacred Heart Hospital
Jelle, Laura St. Clare Hospital and Health Services
Pielhop, Judy Sacred Heart Hospital
Berndt, Ken Bellin Memorial Hospital
Dettman, Amy Bellin Memorial Hospital
Roethle, Linda Bellin Psychiatric Center
Fry, Robert Bellin Memorial Hospital
Hieb, Laura Bellin Memorial Hospital
Rocheleau, John Bellin Memorial Hospital
Watson, Christopher Bellin Memorial Hospital
Owen, Marlene Flambeau Hospital
Aittama, Craig Saint Michael’s Hospital
Baker, David Saint Michael’s Hospital
Bessen, Paulette Saint Michael’s Hospital
Gaynor, Stanley Black River Memorial Hospital
Clough, Sheila Howard Young Medical Center
Pahl, Joan Meriter Hospital
DeWitt, Pamela St. Joseph’s Community Health Services
McCoic, Kristie St. Joseph’s Community Health Services
Skifton, Russell Saint Michael’s Hospital
Ashbeck, Norbert Good Samaritan Health Center of Merrill
Pfeifer, Patricia Saint Michael’s Hospital
Shave, Sandra Saint Michael’s Hospital
LaBarge, Margie Saint Michael’s Hospital
Schultz, Rhea Meriter Hospital
Hinner, William Ministry Health Care
Schill, Jane Saint Michael’s Hospital
Gullicksrud, Lynn Sacred Heart Hospital
Evans, Carol Memorial Medical Center
Juckem, Elizabeth Columbia St. Mary’s-Milwaukee Campus
Kaster, Dennis Saint Michael’s Hospital
Brisch-Cramer, Deb Hudson Hospital
Jay, John Community Memorial Hospital
Harnisch, Betty Memorial Medical Center
Jirous, Becky Saint Michael’s Hospital
King, Steve Saint Michael’s Hospital
Keene, Kaaron Memorial Health Center
Caven, Michael Memorial Medical Center
Stellflue, Nancy Tri-County Memorial Hospital
Meyer, Markie Community Memorial Hospital
Lenertz, Brad Memorial Health Center
Shoup, Judy Saint Michael’s Hospital
Dittmar, Clarence Community Memorial Hospital
Van Winkle, Gregory Community Memorial Hospital
Heider, Lisa Community Memorial Hospital
Pennebecker, Allen Ministry Health Care
Ott, Virginia St. Joseph’s Hospital
Turtenwald, Robyn Community Memorial Hospital
Castelaz, Kathy St. Vincent Hospital
Benusa, Kris Tri-County Memorial Hospital
McCloskey, Lynne Saint Michael’s Hospital
Bellin, Carolyn Froedtert Memorial Lutheran Hospital
Iding, Laura Froedtert Memorial Lutheran Hospital
Andersen, Travis Calumet Medical Center
Bagemihl, Katherine Froedtert Memorial Lutheran Hospital
Connell, Marilyn Froedtert Memorial Lutheran Hospital
Cranberg, Judith Froedtert Memorial Lutheran Hospital
Waldoch, Timothy Froedtert Memorial Lutheran Hospital
Werlein, George Sacred Heart Hospital
Ackerman, Jamie Sacred Heart Hospital
Albrecht, Linda Sacred Heart Hospital
Cebula, Michelle Sacred Heart Hospital
McKay, Jean Sacred Heart Hospital
Peterson, Brenda Sacred Heart Hospital
Pittenger, Jeannie Sacred Heart Hospital
Roshell, Diane Sacred Heart Hospital
Schweigert, Joy Sacred Heart Hospital
Segerstrom, Amy Sacred Heart Hospital
Skrukrud, Annette Sacred Heart Hospital
Skulan-Balmer, Anna Sacred Heart Hospital
Tandberg, Christine Sacred Heart Hospital
Vogler, Linda Sacred Heart Hospital
Axelsen, Kathern Sacred Heart Hospital
Hellard, Robin Sacred Heart Hospital
Piper, Barbara Sacred Heart Hospital
Spanos, Chris Meriter Hospital
Aminpour, Ali Sacred Heart Hospital
Anderson, Mark Sacred Heart Hospital
Carlson, Carol Sacred Heart Hospital
Ellious, Nicolle Sacred Heart Hospital
Lien, Kristine Sacred Heart Hospital
Mackey, Theresa Sacred Heart Hospital
Poquette, Jane Sacred Heart Hospital
Smith, Julie Sacred Heart Hospital
Soward, Cindy Sacred Heart Hospital
Stone, Stacy Sacred Heart Hospital
Storing, Sandy Sacred Heart Hospital
Possin, Charles Meriter Hospital
Bryans, Richard Sacred Heart Hospital
DeMars, Nancy Sacred Heart Hospital
Dwyer, Amy Sacred Heart Hospital
Johnson, Jean Sacred Heart Hospital
Kranig, Robin Sacred Heart Hospital
LuCore, Michael Sacred Heart Hospital
Nulsen, Kate Sacred Heart Hospital
Pengra, Mary Sacred Heart Hospital
Richbourg, Mary Sacred Heart Hospital
Schmelzle, Barbara Sacred Heart Hospital
Spindler, Greg Sacred Heart Hospital
Stack, John Sacred Heart Hospital
Block, Jennifer Sacred Heart Hospital
Preston, Mark Sacred Heart Hospital
Brunner, Pam Sacred Heart Hospital
Comerford, Angela Sacred Heart Hospital
Klapperich, Linda Our Lady of Victory Hospital
Peskie, Walt Flambeau Hospital
Barkovich, Catherine Sacred Heart Hospital
Beckler, Rick Sacred Heart Hospital
Bloom, Deborah Sacred Heart Hospital
Flanagan, Tracy Sacred Heart Hospital
Hassemer, Robert Sacred Heart Hospital
Hon, Ronald Sacred Heart Hospital
Johnson, Kimberly Sacred Heart Hospital
Leonard, Thomas Sacred Heart Hospital
Mason, Robert Sacred Heart Hospital
Nezworski, Joseph Sacred Heart Hospital
Padilla, Gilbert Sacred Heart Hospital
Polenz, Scott Sacred Heart Hospital
Schultz, Rebecca Sacred Heart Hospital
Sprengeler, John Sacred Heart Hospital
VanDeVoort, John Sacred Heart Hospital
Wrobel, Roberta Sacred Heart Hospital
Dalebroux, Steve St. Marys Hospital Medical Center
Gjolberg, Skip Sacred Heart Hospital
Schwoegler, Mary St. Marys Hospital Medical Center
Greene, Roxanne Our Lady of Victory Hospital
Folstad, John Sacred Heart Hospital
Kaiser, Ann Sacred Heart Hospital
Mohr, Carol Sacred Heart Hospital
Peiffer, Susan Sacred Heart Hospital
Prock, Gail Sacred Heart Hospital
Beglinger, Joan St. Marys Hospital Medical Center
Brennan, Karen St. Marys Hospital Medical Center
Huemmer, Paul St. Marys Hospital Medical Center
Marggi, Michele St. Marys Hospital Medical Center
Rothenbuehler, Gary St. Marys Hospital Medical Center
Rounds, Thomas St. Marys Hospital Medical Center
Sutton, Mary St. Marys Hospital Medical Center
Appleton, Karl St. Vincent Hospital
LuCore, Patricia Sacred Heart Hospital
McFarlane, Marge Sacred Heart Hospital
Palecek, Steve Sacred Heart Hospital
Dwyer, Maxine St. Marys Hospital Medical Center
Jensen, Russell St. Marys Hospital Medical Center
Leonard, Mary Kay St. Marys Hospital Medical Center
Kowalkowski, Carolyn St. Joseph’s Hospital
Horn, Diane St. Joseph’s Hospital
Schrage, Karen St. Joseph’s Hospital
Craft, Carolyn St. Joseph’s Hospital
Giedd, Jan St. Joseph’s Hospital
McNutt, Brad St. Joseph’s Hospital
Brockman, Susan Meriter Hospital
Elliott, Roger St. Joseph’s Hospital
Swanson, Bert St. Joseph’s Hospital
Wynimko, Susan St. Joseph’s Hospital
Palagi, Richard Sauk Prairie Memorial Hospital
Walker, Troy St. Clare Hospital and Health Services
Koehler, Robert St. Joseph’s Hospital
Rubenzer, Deanne St. Joseph’s Hospital
Marsch, Jean St. Vincent Hospital
Schamberg, MD, Jay Aurora Health Care
Boese, June St. Luke’s Hospital
Neikirk, Jon Froedtert Memorial Lutheran Hospital
Brenny, Terrence Stoughton Hospital Association
Belland, Kathy All Saints Healthcare
Boland, Susan All Saints Healthcare
Clark, Dennis St. Joseph’s Hospital
Monien, Yvonne Saint Michael’s Hospital
Casey, Candy Columbia Center
Edwards, Marge Moundview Memorial Hospital and Clinics
Mulder, Doris Beloit Memorial Hospital
Buelow, William Meriter Hospital
Meyer, Jeffery Osceola Medical Center
Stelzer, Jason St. Clare Hospital and Health Services
Winegarden, Carol L. St. Mary’s Hospital Medical Center
Backman, Dan Tri-County Memorial Hospital
Fowler, Rose All Saints Healthcare
Ouimet, Mary All Saints Healthcare
Govier, Mary Holy Family Memorial Medical Center
Zorbini, John Community Memorial Hospital
Larson, William St. Joseph’s Hospital
Klay, Lois St. Joseph’s Hospital
Christianson, Roger St. Marys Hospital Medical Center
Raaum, Karl Froedtert Memorial Lutheran Hospital
Laatsch, Lisa Lakeview Medical Center
Pollard, Dennis Community Memorial Hospital
Hansen, Carrie Ministry Health Care
Pechan, Marlene St. Marys Hospital Medical Center
Grohskopf, Kevin SSM Health Care-Wisconsin
Fenno, James St. Joseph’s Hospital
Busch, Rebecca Spooner Health System
Chan, Wing Meriter Hospital
Hurt, Rhonda St. Joseph’s Hospital
Ballinger, Michael Ministry Health Care
Tuttle, Kathryn Memorial Medical Center
Schaetzl, Ron St. Clare Hospital and Health Services
Savage, Wendy Good Samaritan Health Center, Merrill
Oberweis, Joseph St. Joseph’s Hospital
Clark, Julie Ann St. Joseph’s Hospital
Gorecki, Susan Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Nohelty, Peter Sacred Heart Hospital
Coady, Susan Good Samaritan Health Center of Merrill
Hackbarth, Margorie St. Clare Hospital and Health Services
May, Carol Mercy Health System
Bartingale, Robert St. Vincent Hospital
Braun, James Flambeau Hospital
Friend, Kathleen Aurora Health Care
Olszewski, Kathleen Saint Michael’s Hospital
Dries, Cindy Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Green, Mary Jean Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Klawans, Charles Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Powers, Mary Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Clapp, Nicole Grant Regional Health Center
Bloch, Peter Wisconsin Hospital Association
Kellenberger, Norma Beaver Dam Community Hospitals
Cleveland, Herbert Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Oerter, Tracy Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Schlapman, Barbara Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Weiner, Debra Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
McBrearty, Mary Jo St. Nicholas Hospital
Johnson, Howard Lakeview Medical Center
Swift, Roberta Ministry Health Care
Bradley, Edward St. Nicholas Hospital
Cherrier, Lori Columbus Community Hospital
Geboy, Scott Hall Render
Curran, Joan Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center
Kruse, Joe Franciscan Skemp Healthcare-La Crosse
Gerke, Mary L. Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center
Hiatt, Emily Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center
Snow, David Hall Render
Klauck, James Froedtert Memorial Lutheran Hospital
Renwick, Richard Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center
Renwick, Suzette Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center
Corradi, Frank St. Joseph’s Hospital
Mueller, Joan Franciscan Skemp Healthcare-La Crosse
Boson, Ann Saint Joseph’s Hospital
Swiderski, Julie Wheaton Franiscan - Milwaukee
Marquardt, Amy Columbia St. Mary’s-Columbia Campus
Gleichert, Ann Lakeview Medical Center
Contributions Ranging from $250 - $499
Potter, Brian Wisconsin Hospital Association
White, Michelle WHA Financial Solutions, Inc.
Rickelman, Debbie WHA Information Center
Ayers, Mandy Wisconsin Hospital Association
Brazys, Mary Wisconsin Hospital Association
Riddle, Roberta Wisconsin Hospital Association
Navti, Abigail Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare
Smith, Gregory Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare
Hofer, John Bay Area Medical Center
Fish, Linda Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Lange, Dr. George Westgate Medical Group, CSMCP
Peterson, Douglas Chippewa Valley Hospital and Oakview Care Center
Anderson, Susan Beloit Memorial Hospital
Bestor, William Community Memorial Hospital
Banzhaf, Elaine Waukesha Memorial Hospital
Buerstatte, Gary ProHealth Care
Deich, Faye Sacred Heart Hospital
Bezucha, Gary Boscobel Area Health Care
Meyer, Miles Meriter Hospital
Blask, Daniel ProHealth Care
Decker, Michael Divine Savior Healthcare
Mlynarek, Robert Waukesha Memorial Hospital
Jentsch, Lisa Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Oswald, John Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Sale, Nora Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Wyatt, David
Bayer, Tom St. Vincent Hospital
Nunn, Jake Aurora St. Luke’s Medical Center
Fischer, Kay Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Jamieson, Donna Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Johnson, Roy Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Melzer-Lange, Marlene Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Olive, Willie Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Ordinans, Karen Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Sachse, Kelly Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Sperka, Julie Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Hessert, Peter Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Olkowski, Leland Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Casanova, James Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Rocole, Theresa All Saints Healthcare
Mantei, Mary Jo Bay Area Medical Center
Nick, Mary Meriter Hospital
Westphal, Judith Affinity Health System
Danner, Forrest Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Sczygelski, Sidney Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Holmes, Christine Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Jablonski, James Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Censky, Bill Holy Family Memorial Medical Center
Lodes, Mary Waukesha Memorial Hospital
VanCourt, Bernie Bay Area Medical Center
Johnson, Curtis Tri-County Memorial Hospital
Jensen, Christopher Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Klunk, Timothy Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
O’Connor, Mary Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Reagan, Theresa Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Carlson, Dan Bay Area Medical Center
Oberholtzer, Curt Bay Area Medical Center
Oldham, Keith Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Pedretti, Julie Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Kellar, Richard West Allis Memorial Hospital
Hoff, Linda Meriter Hospital
Kessel, Maryanne Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Scott, Richard Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Weisman, Steven Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Biros, Marilyn SSM Health Care-Wisconsin
Stuart, Philip Tomah Memorial Hospital
Dietsche, James Bellin Memorial Hospital
Frohna, Michael Bellin Memorial Hospital
Peterson, Kimberly Bellin Memorial Hospital
Woleske, Chris Bellin Psychiatric Center
Gorelick, Marc Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Jay, M.D., Susan Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Emon, Dee Howard Young Medical Center
Hiltanen, Mary Bellin Memorial Hospital
Abels, Maya Aurora Health Care
Arnett, E. Stuart Aurora Health Care-South Region
Nelson, James Fort HealthCare
Jones, Tom St. Joseph’s Community Health Services
Hardy, Ellen Mile Bluff Medical Center
Krauklis, Gene Aurora Health Care-South Region
Gutekunst, Penny Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Kerschner, M.D., Joseph Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Hammer, Michael Good Samaritan Health Center, Merrill
Aulik, Juli
Harding, Edward Columbus Community Hospital
Dallman, Michael
Erickson, William Sacred Heart-St. Mary’s Hospitals
Spieckerman, Jill Sacred Heart-St. Mary’s Hospitals
Sutliff, John Sacred Heart-St. Mary’s Hospitals
Hilt, Monica Sacred Heart-St. Mary’s Hospitals
Jaeger, Lee Aurora Health Care
Kostroski, Sharon Saint Joseph’s Hospital
Skaden, John Saint Joseph’s Hospital
Neufelder, Daniel Affinity Health System
Knutzen, Barbara Agnesian HealthCare
Kluesner, Kevin Aurora Health Care-South Region
Neet, Bradley Saint Michael’s Hospital
Baker, Chris St. Marys Hospital Medical Center
Miller, Barbara St. Marys Hospital Medical Center
Huettl, Patty Sacred Heart Hospital
Ronstrom, Stephen Sacred Heart Hospital
Pedersen, Robin Aurora Health Care
Stanley, Lawrence J. Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Roraff, Greg Memorial Health Center
Brasseaux, Mary St. Nicholas Hospital
Meyer, Loren All Saints Healthcare
Brandel, Patrick Holy Family Memorial Medical Center
Strombom, Peter Meriter Hospital
Ashenhurst, Karla Ministry Health Care
Levar, Jane Ministry Health Care
Kuiper, Laurie Aurora Health Care
Huber, Mark Aurora Health Care
Mugan, James Agnesian HealthCare
Wilke, Julie Monroe Clinic, The
Henckel, Susan Columbia St. Mary’s Ozaukee Campus
Grundstrom, David Flambeau Hospital
Schroeder, Larry Sauk Prairie Memorial Hospital
Nockerts, Steven Richland Hospital
Potter, Terri Meriter Hospital
Hansen, Robert Cumberland Memorial Hospital
Schulz, Janet Oconomowoc Memorial Hospital
McNally, Maureen Froedtert Memorial Lutheran Hospital
Heifetz, Michael SSM Health Care-Wisconsin
Blanchard, Michael Saint Joseph’s Hospital
Yunk, Dennis Agnesian HealthCare
Furlong, Marian Hudson Hospital
Eddy, Lee Anne Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Thiel, Mike Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Twinem, Thomas Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Clark, Mary Ann Cumberland Memorial Hospital
Moraski, Kevin Ministry Health Care
Tapper, Joy Wheaton Franiscan - Milwaukee
Lockhart, MD, Jack Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center
Rozenfeld, Jonathan St. Marys Hospital Medical Center
Kepchar, Dennis Ministry Health Care
Piehl, Steven Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Contributions Ranging from $500 - $999
Borgerding, Dana Wisconsin Hospital Association
Miloszewicz, Angela Wisconsin Hospital Association
Quinn, Connie Wisconsin Hospital Association
Frank, Jennifer Wisconsin Hospital Association
Richardson, Dana Wisconsin Hospital Association
Grasmick, Mary Kay Wisconsin Hospital Association
Warmuth, Eric Wisconsin Hospital Association
Shabino, Charles Wisconsin Hospital Association
Blum, William Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare
McGuire, Terrance Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare
Wachs, Jon Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare
Canter, Richard Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare
Smith, David Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare
Dicus-Johnson, Coreen Wheaton Franiscan - Milwaukee
Worrick, Gerald Door County Memorial Hospital
Grady, Glen Memorial Medical Center
Duncan, Larry Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Flowers, Patty Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Jones, Michael Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Kersten, Juliet Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Korom, Nancy Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Niemer, Margaret Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Anderson, Sandy St. Clare Hospital and Health Services
Schafer, Michael Spooner Health System
Brown, Lori Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Gutzeit, Michael Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Vogel, Martin Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Radoszewski, Pat Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Reynolds, Sheila Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Brophy, Michael Aurora Health Care
Morgan, Dwight Aurora Health Care
Karuschak, Michael Amery Regional Medical Center
Banaszynski, Gregory Fort HealthCare
Postler-Slattery, Diane Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Kosanovich, John Watertown Memorial Hospital
McGee, Fred Meriter Hospital
Schumacher, Elizabeth Meriter Hospital
Neidenbach, Joseph St. Vincent Hospital
Kerwin, George Bellin Memorial Hospital
Herzog, Mark Holy Family Memorial Medical Center
Myers, Raymond St. Joseph’s Hospital
Hyland, Carol Agnesian HealthCare
Priest, MD, Geoffrey Meriter Hospital
Schmidt, Michael Saint Joseph’s Hospital
Johnson, Charles St. Marys Hospital Medical Center
Shapiro, David Columbia St. Mary’s-Columbia Campus
Barnett, Jane
Becker, Richard Community Memorial Hospital
Bultema, Janice
Capelli, A.J. Aurora Health Care
Buck, Catherine Froedtert Memorial Lutheran Hospital
Kinsella, Connie
Maxson-Cooper, Pamela Froedtert Memorial Lutheran Hospital
O’Connell, Blaine Froedtert Memorial Lutheran Hospital
Norton, Andrew Froedtert Memorial Lutheran Hospital
Little, Steven Agnesian HealthCare
Byrne, Frank St. Marys Hospital Medical Center
Hamilton, Mark
Richards, Theresa Saint Joseph’s Hospital
Wallace, Michael Fort HealthCare
Robertstad, John Oconomowoc Memorial Hospital
Umland, Steve Ministry Health Care
Kryda, Michael Saint Joseph’s Hospital
Runge, Charles Froedtert Memorial Lutheran Hospital
Heisler, John SSM Health Care-Wisconsin
Teigen, Bobbe Aurora Medical Center - Manitowoc
Hymans, Daniel Memorial Medical Center
Wilk, Leonard Aurora Sinai Medical Center
Klawiter, Anne Southwest Health Center
Dreher, Charles Columbia St. Mary’s-Milwaukee Campus
Contributions Ranging from $1000 - $1999
Leitch, Laura Wisconsin Hospital Association
Boese, Jennifer Wisconsin Hospital Association
Quinn, George Wisconsin Hospital Association
Stanford, Matthew Wisconsin Hospital Association
Braddock, Jonathan WHA Financial Solutions, Inc.
Bazan, Bill Wisconsin Hospital Association
Bloch, Jodi Wisconsin Hospital Association
Kachelski, Joe WHA Information Center
Oliverio, John Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare
Olson, David Bay Area Medical Center
Kaufman, Nancy Aurora Health Care
Birkenstock, Timothy Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Christensen, Cinthia Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Dunigan, Thomas Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Gazzana, Thomas Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Hutchison, Heather Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Munson, Kenneth Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Fale, Robert Agnesian HealthCare
Britton, Gregory Beloit Memorial Hospital
Wolf, Edward Lakeview Medical Center
Starmann-Harrison, Mary SSM Health Care-Wisconsin
Olson, Edward Waukesha Memorial Hospital
Ela, Susan Aurora Health Care
Buser, Kenneth All Saints Healthcare
Devermann, Robert Aurora Medical Center of Oshkosh
Smith, Linda Aurora BayCare Medical Center
Eichman, Cynthia Our Lady of Victory Hospital
Johnson, George Reedsburg Area Medical Center
Erwin, Duane Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Nestor, Donald Aurora Health Care
El-Jack, Mohamed Bay Area Medical Center
Karkkainen, Michael Bay Area Medical Center
Fish, David St. Joseph’s Hospital
Bruce, Billy St. Joseph’s Community Health Services
Westrick, Paul Columbia St. Mary’s-Milwaukee Campus
Petasnick, William Froedtert Memorial Lutheran Hospital
Getto, Carl
Kief, Brian Howard Young Medical Center
Martin, Jeff Ministry Health Care
Eiler, Gary
Kammer, Peter Essie Consulting Group
Pandl, Therese Columbia St. Mary’s-Milwaukee Campus
Buettner, Susan Aurora Health Care
Wick, Timothy Burnett Medical Center
Mohorek, Ronald Ministry Health Care
Desien, Nicholas Ministry Health Care
Loftus, Philip Aurora Health Care
Mahoney, Lorelle Aurora Health Care
O’Brien, Mary Aurora St. Luke’s Medical Center
Contributions Ranging from $2000 - $2999
Brenton, Mary E. Wisconsin Hospital Association
Turkal, Nick Aurora Health Care
Nannis, Paul Aurora Health Care
Anderson, Loren Aurora Health Care-South Region
Vice, Jon Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Brideau, Leo Columbia St. Mary’s-Columbia Campus
Sollenberger, Donna
Contributions $3000 and up
Brenton, Stephen Wisconsin Hospital Association
Borgerding, Eric Wisconsin Hospital Association
Howe, Edwin Aurora Health Care
Size, Tim Rural Wisconsin Health Cooperative
Milakovich, Paul Aurora Health Care
Titus, Rexford ProHealth Care
Speaking at the WHA Board of Directors Meeting October 19, Medicaid Administrator Kevin Hayden reminded the group that Medicaid is the largest health care payer in the state, with one of every seven Wisconsinites utilizing some aspect of the program. That fact still doesn’t translate into legislators always understanding that Medicaid is a key issue. Hayden said he appreciates the work that WHA does in raising awareness of the Medicaid program among legislators.
Hayden describes his job as one of "managing relationships" between the state and the federal government, and between the state and county government. He said there is a true commitment in the program to ensure that the largest payer in the state "acts like it should" and mirrors the performance of successful payer operations.
He encouraged hospitals to contact him if they encounter problems with the Medicaid program, as he is striving to streamline processes to ensure timely payments to providers.
In his report, WHA President Steve Brenton thanked the Board members for their feedback on the WHA Strategic Plan, which the Board later approved. Brenton said a major initiative in the strategic plan is to help member hospitals develop physician leadership programs and address the looming physician shortage.
Brenton said the release of the community benefits report this week was a success, thanks to the work of both WHA staff and hospital public and community relations departments. WHA is in the process of sending individualized reports to legislators that pull out the stories that are specific to their district.
Senior Vice President George Quinn outlined the proposed budget for 2007, which in later action, received Board approval. Both revenue and expenses are budgeted at $5.2 million, with operating income close to a break even. Dues will increase by 3 percent for all members except those at the maximum, which will increase 4 percent. Major initiatives for 2007 include Medicaid advocacy and the upcoming Supreme Court election.
The Board approved a recommendation that 100 percent of Wisconsin hospitals will be tobacco free campus-wide by November 1, 2007.
Leo Brideau, CEO, Columbia St. Mary’s and chair of the WHA Task Force on Access and Coverage, described the Task Force meetings as being very effective. He said in addition to hospitals, the group included representatives from the Wisconsin Medical Society and the insurance industry. The Task Force studied national and state initiatives and created eight basic principles that provide a method for evaluating the various plans. To view the principles, visit www.wha.org/financeAndData/pdf/2006accessprinciples10-19.pdf.
The WHA Board approved a new Task Force on Pricing and Billing. WHA released guidelines in 2004 related to billing and collection, but much has happened since then. The Task Force will identify and examine current issues related to hospital pricing transparency and billing practices and make recommendations relating to updating WHA’s current "Billing and Collection Guidelines for Wisconsin Hospitals." Tom Bayer, St. Vincent Hospital, Green Bay, will chair the Task Force.
Senior Vice President Eric Borgerding presented a pre-election analysis. He discussed several of the key statewide races, including Doyle v. Green for Governor and Falk v. Van Hollen for Attorney General. He also discussed state legislative races and speculated on the impact the outcomes will have on WHA’s advocacy agenda in 2007.
WHA Vice President Dana Richardson presented the Phase 4 recommendations of the CheckPoint Measures Team. She described the appropriate care indexes that will be developed for the measures related to heart attack, health failure and pneumonia. The "bundling" of individual measures into an index is a concept supported by CMS and Institute for Healthcare Improvement. A partnership with PeriData.net has created an opportunity for WHA to include perinatal measures in CheckPoint. The Measures Team will work closely with PeriData to identify measures for public reporting. The Board also approved adding AHRQ Inpatient Quality Indicators that measure for volume, mortality and utilization.
WHA Thanks Roberta Riddle for Dedication, Years of ServiceThis week, WHA said farewell to Roberta Riddle after a career here that spanned a decade. In those 10 short years, Roberta made many friends, both within the office and among our members. Roberta started her first WHA career in the Public Policy Department in 1993. After a brief hiatus, she returned to WHA in 1996. In 2000, Roberta moved into the executive office and supported then-Association President Bob Taylor through his retirement in 2001. She remained in the executive office as Steve Brenton’s assistant when he became WHA’s president in 2002.
Roberta has accepted a position in the Rusk County Memorial Hospital and Nursing Home’s Business Department in Ladysmith. Roberta and her husband Jim own a tavern, the Sportman’s Inn, in Ladysmith.
"Roberta has been a terrific asset and friend to WHA staff and members," said WHA President Steve Brenton. "We wish her well and look forward to staying in touch."
President’s Column: WHA Future InitiativesThis week’s WHA Board meeting represented the culmination of 2006 Association priorities and also set the stage for several important future initiatives.
On October 19, the WHA Board approved: a revised 2006-2010 WHA Strategic Plan incorporating new priorities identified in the recent member survey; received a status report on the unveiling of WHA’s first annual statewide Community Benefits Report, including the rollout of a new Web site—www.wiServePoint.org; and learned that the Wisconsin Hospitals PAC and Conduit contribution campaign is within reach of its ambitious 2006 goal.
Looking forward, the WHA Board has in motion several new initiatives that will prove to be future WHA headline program priorities.
Steve Brenton,
President
Chuck Shabino, MD, WHA’s senior medical advisor, received the Department of Family Medicine-University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health John H. Renner "Wisconsin Idea" award at a ceremony in Madison on October 19. Shabino was chosen for the award based on his service and dedication to the family practice residency program. In his comments, Shabino noted the important role that residency programs located in non-urban areas have on attracting and retaining physicians.
In presenting the award, Kevin O’Connell, MD, a family practice physician in Wausau, complimented Shabino’s leadership abilities and his ability to get things done. "No matter what we needed in the residency program in Wausau, whether it was a new desk, or more financial support, Chuck was always working to make sure we got it," O’Connell said.
Campaign Spotlight – Senate District 21: Bill McReynolds v. John LehmanLehman, a Democrat, is the current State Representative for the 62nd Assembly District, which is part of this Senate District. He was elected to the State Legislature in 1996 and serves on the Racine City Council where he was former City Council President in 2000.
Candidate Survey Results: Candidates’ answers to selected abbreviated questions from WHA’s 2006 candidate survey appear below. John Lehman did not return the survey. To view the entire survey for this or any other race, contact Eric Borgerding or Jodi Bloch 608-274-1820.
McReynolds: Employers.
McReynolds: "Reduce unnecessarily burdensome mandates and red tape."
McReynolds: YES. "I support transparency efforts like PricePoint."
McReynolds: Insurance companies that pay for the care.
McReynolds: YES, "depending on the state budget situation."
Mason, a Democrat, grew up in Racine. He graduated from UW Madison and worked in politics helping elect former Senator Kim Plache and has since worked in legislative relations for the State Bar of Wisconsin and the American Federation of Teachers-Wisconsin.
Candidate Survey Results: Candidates’ answers to selected abbreviated questions from WHA’s 2006 candidate survey appear below. Cory Mason did not return the survey. To view the entire survey for this or any other race, contact Eric Borgerding or Jodi Bloch 608-274-1820.
Wanggaard: Employers.
Wanggaard: "Small business should be allowed to pool resources. Transparency in billing should also be a factor."
Wanggaard: YES.
Wanggaard: Insurance companies that pay for the care.
Wanggaard: YES.
Wanggaard: YES. "If the controlling regulator has the ability to enforce the regulation to insure public safety and confidence in the system."
Bill Bruce, President of St. Joseph’s Community Health Services in Hillsboro and Mike Schafer, CEO of Spooner Health System testified on Tuesday, October 17 before the State Senate Select Committee on Health Care Reform’s hearing. The subject of this particular hearing was long-term care and nursing home issues.
Bruce and Schafer both testified that the impact of low Medicaid reimbursement rates have forced hospital systems that operate nursing homes to make difficult decisions whether it be further cost-shifting to private pay patients, delayed upgrades to critical medical services like the ER or closure of nursing home beds where there is limited access to this kind of care elsewhere in the community. Both also urged Committee members and DHFS that as they look toward the expansion of FamilyCare statewide that many of the patients currently in their facilities require skilled or intensive skilled care and most often can be best cared for in a nursing home facility and that the Program’s expansion, not to mention reimbursement rates for these patients, need to reflect that reality.
The Committee was created earlier in the year to seek input and ideas on health care reform strategies. The first hearing was held in April, and hearings have continued on a monthly basis since that time with the Committee scheduled to vote on various member reform ideas by the end of November, with a final report due the first week in December. Committee members include Co-chairs Sens. Carol Roessler (R-Oshkosh) and Alberta Darling (R-River Hills), along with Sens. Luther Olsen (R-Berlin), Mark Miller (D-Monona) and Jon Erpenbach (D-Middleton).
Grassroots Spotlight: Mercy Hosts Rep. Towns and Rep. SheridanMercy Health System in Janesville hosted two area legislators at their Janesville facility. Both Rep. Debi Towns (R-Janesville) and Rep. Mike Sheridan (D-Janesville) visited the hospital, talked with staff and were able to tour the Cancer Center of Excellence.
The hospital visit provided both hospital staff and legislators an excellent opportunity to interact with one another. Both legislators were particularly interested in the Cancer Center’s latest technological advancements.
"Hosting area legislators was an enjoyable event, and we are looking forward to more in the future," said Rich Gruber, Mercy’s Vice President for Advocacy. "If other hospitals haven’t done so, I would highly encourage them to invite their legislators in for a visit. It’s well worth it."
Grassroots Spotlight: Black River Falls Hosts Health Care ForumBlack River Falls was the site of a health care forum where over 100 people heard about this important issue.
Attendees included individuals from the local hospital, Black River Memorial Hospital.
Update on Shaken Baby LegislationNew statutory responsibilities designed to reduce the incidence of Shaken Baby Syndrome in Wisconsin become effective April 5, 2007.
The law, 2005 Wisconsin Act 165 authored by Senator Julie Lassa, creates a requirement that specific educational materials, an explanation and a pledge card be given to parents, and that viewing of a specific video be offered to parents of babies born in a hospital or en route to a hospital. The law also requires documentation of those acts in the hospital record. Work has been progressing on development of the educational materials, the pledge card and rules relating to and signed into law last March. You can view some of the material at the Children’s Trust Fund web site: http://wctf.state.wi.us/home/ .
WHA will monitor progress of both materials and rules relating to this law and keep our members appraised as they are available for review and comment.
Petasnick Committed to Making a DifferenceAs a Wisconsin hospital leader, and as chair-elect of the American Hospital Association, William Petasnick is committed to improving the health status of our communities, and to making a difference in the lives of those for which we care. In the October issue of H & HN (www.hhnmag.com), Petasnick said he has long been committed to the concept of public service, to "making a difference."
"All health care is local. Each provider and community has a different and unique set of needs and goals. The community is defined differently in each setting, but the universal truth is that health care is all about serving that community and improving the health status of the people who live there," Petasnick, who is CEO of Froedtert & Community Health System in Milwaukee, said. "We need to partner with the business community. Business leaders are frustrated, they are in a competitive environment, and they see costs mounting and feel caught between a rock and a hard place. Too often, they view us as just another commodity. They see us as contributing to the problem rather than contributing to the solution," he added.
Board members offer the perspective of community leaders, as well as a framework for decision-making within the organization. "I know within our organization we have gone back to the drawing board when we could not fully answer the Board’s question: ‘Is this action truly in the best interest of the community we serve?’" Petasnick asked.
Petasnick remains in awe of hospitals. "The incredible aspect of this field is that we occupy leadership positions where we can leave our offices and walk the halls and see tragedy and miracles. A hospital is an amazing place, and leading one is incredibly gratifying," he concluded.
15th Annual $1,000 Rural Health Prize - April 15 DeadlineThe Hermes Monato, Jr. Prize of $1,000 is awarded annually for the best rural health paper. It is open to all students of the University of Wisconsin. Students are encouraged to write on a rural health topic for a regular class and then to submit a copy to the Rural Wisconsin Health Cooperative as an entry by April 15. Previous award winners as well as judging criteria and submission information are available at
www.rwhc.com/Awards/MonatoPrize.aspx.Top
WHA Education: careLearning.com Information & Demonstration Session Offered November 10
careLearning.com, an e-learning and education management solution specifically for health care professionals, is now available to WHA hospital members as a simple, affordable way to keep employees up-to-date on mandatory JCAHO and OSHA training, as well as regulatory and policy issues.
In an effort to introduce careLearning to the hospital membership, WHA is hosting an informational session about careLearning, which will include a complete demonstration. The session is scheduled for Friday, November 10, at the WHA office in Madison. There is no cost to attend this event, but pre-registration is requested. You can view more information and register for the session online at www.wha.org. If you are interested in participating via audioconference and webinar, please contact Jennifer Frank directly at 608-274-1820 or jfrank@wha.org.
Jim Kranz, vice-chairman of careLearning and vice president for the West Virginia Hospital Association, will introduce the concept of careLearning and provide valuable information about the benefits, features and cost of careLearning. Staff development specialists, directors of education, human resource professionals and any other hospital staff involved in the coordination of mandatory and/or continuing education for hospital employees are encouraged to attend.
You can also experience careLearning now by visiting www.carelearning.com and reviewing free course demos in the visitor section. Or, for more specific information, visit www.wha.org or contact Jennifer Frank at
jfrank@wha.org.Top
WHA Education: Service Recovery Skills to Restore Patient Satisfaction: Focus of November 16 Audioconference
Developing strong patient relationships with high levels of satisfaction is challenging, but is a realistic goal. On November 16, WHA is offering a 90-minute audioconference entitled, "Service Recovery Skills to Restore Patient Satisfaction," focused on helping hospital staff respond to complaints with greater ease, and in a way that helps you preserve, and even improve, the patient relationship.
Participants will gain insight into best practices in service recovery, develop effective responses to specific patient complaints, learn what to do and say when the patient is wrong, outline techniques to prevent escalation in difficult situations, develop responses you can choose from when patients complain about billing, service quality, their environment, your colleagues, and communication.
For more information about the content or to register, visit the education section of WHA’s Web site at www.wha.org. The webinar is scheduled for Thursday, November 16, from 9-10:30 am CST, and the fee to participate is $169 per site.
Advance registration is required to ensure delivery of instructional materials and call-in instructions, which will be distributed after the registration cut-off date of November 6. For registration questions, contact Sherry Rabuck at 608-274-1820 or email
srabuck@wha.org.Top
Community Benefits Stories From Our Hospitals: Agnesian HealthCare, Fond du Lac
Samaritan Health Clinic helps ensure care for all
Many members of our community have financial hardships that prevent them from seeking necessary medical care. But the Samaritan Health Clinic - with offices at St. Agnes Hospital and Waupun Memorial Hospital - is helping ensure all patients receive care, regardless of their ability to pay…people such as Donna from Waupun.
Diagnosed with Type 2 adult onset diabetes, Donna first started using the clinic in Waupun in 1999 when a friend referred her to the program.
"I do not need insulin to control my diabetes, but I do need to take medications," she says. "At the time I had been without medication for a while because I could not afford it. I went to the clinic and they helped me get into a pharmaceutical company’s assistance program so I could get my medications directly from them."
Donna also visits the clinic every three months for a checkup, or if she is ever sick. About a year ago she had a mild stroke that left her with limited mobility and unable to work. She is now trying to get disability insurance, but in the meantime uses the clinic to help manage her care.
Both the Waupun and Fond du Lac clinics often see patients in similar situations, according to Liz Hoffman, RN, Samaritan Health Clinic.
The majority of our patients have chronic health care needs but no primary care physician, Hoffman explains. So we serve not only as their caregivers, but as their nurse case managers and health resource. I do not know what some patients would do if we were not here.
Donna agrees. "They are so good to me at the clinic. They are more than my care providers; they are my friends. If I need to talk, they listen. Without them I would not have the medication I need and would not be here today. They are lifesavers," she said.
The Samaritan Health Clinic provides non-emergency medical care for qualifying residents of Fond du Lac and Dodge counties with no health insurance. Appointments at St. Agnes Hospital are available Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Tuesday evenings by calling 920-926-4841; appointments at Waupun Memorial Hospital are available by calling 920-324-5581.
Submit hospital community benefit stories to Mary Kay Grasmick, editor, mgrasmick@wha.org
or call 608-274-1820.