Governor Scott Walker has proclaimed Thursday, November 15 Wisconsin’s Rural Health Day in honor of the vital role rural emergency medical service, hospital, and clinic staff play in their communities. As the
proclamation notes, each year, millions of Wisconsin citizens and out-of-state visitors travel to our state’s rural communities for business and recreation.
Wisconsin’s Rural Health Day recognizes the unique contributions of rural communities, the health care providers that serve these communities, and the important economic role health care plays in the rural areas of Wisconsin. The Governor’s proclamation names WHA, the Wisconsin Office of Rural Health, and other statewide groups for their dedication and support of local rural health care providers.
“Rural hospitals support the physical well-being of their communities and are an important economic engine in the area. Wisconsin is nationally known for its high-quality health care system, and rural hospitals are an essential part in maintaining affordable, accessible health care,” said WHA President/CEO Eric Borgerding.
Ascension Good Samaritan received the Wisconsin Office of Rural Health’s
Outstanding Contribution to Rural Health Award in recognition of the hospital’s innovative approach to help those in their rural community, noting specifically two programs.
The Merrill Community Paramedic Program is a partnership with the City of Merrill Fire Department in which local paramedics provide free follow-up visits for recently-discharged patients who suffer from medical conditions. The Tooth Fairy Fund financially assists those who present with tooth pain at the emergency department to receive treatment at a local federally qualified dental clinic nearby.