State News
Attendees at White House Forum Voice Health Care Reform Ideas
The forum - the first of five to be held nationally over the next month - was co-led by Wisconsin Gov. Jim Doyle and Melody Barnes, director of the White House Domestic Policy Council. More than 25 attendees spoke about their own experiences with the health care system or to express suggestions on how to improve the health care delivery system. [Read article]
1st White House Health Forum Kicks Off in Michigan
The series of regional health forums emphasize that reforming health care is yet another way to help the nation's struggling economy. This forum was moderated by Michigan Gov. Granholm and Wisconsin Gov. Doyle. Doctors, patients, insurers, policy experts and health care advocates were in the audience. [Read article]
Medical Discount Cards Might Not Offer Much, Or Any, Savings
Public Investigator: Universal Health Card LLC sells a discount card that promises to save people up to 60% on all health care needs, according to the company's Web site. But good luck finding a doctor who accepts the card. [Read article]
Gundersen Lutheran CEO Invited to Health Care Summit
Gov. Doyle invited the Gundersen CEO who is also board chairman for the Wisconsin Collaborative for Healthcare Quality. The summit in Michigan is one of five in the country; discussing health care reform and best practices. Participants include doctors, patients, health care providers and policymakers. [Read article]
Local Health Efforts to Get $618K in Fed Funds
La Crosse County Health Department will receive $333,000 for a program to prevent childhood obesity and Gundersen Lutheran receives $285,000 to provide a health technology network to connect rural clinics to the hospital. [Read article]
Governor Doyle Column: Washington Should Look to Wisconsin for Answer to Health Care Reform
America is home to the best medical technology and best doctors in the world. Unfortunately, their services are a luxury that many Americans cannot afford. Health care remains one of the leading causes of bankruptcy in our country. Wisconsin will co-host with Michigan the first in a series of Regional White House Forums on Health Reform. [Read article 1; Read article 2]
Wisconsin Partnership Program 2009-2014 Five-Year Plan
The Plan sets the direction and objectives of the Wisconsin Partnership Program over the next five years, building on the accomplishments achieved since the inception of the Program. The proposed initiatives are all directed toward addressing the challenging public health issues facing Wisconsin. [Read article]
Health Care Workers & EMS Providers Promote Benefits of 911
An educational campaign, "Care Begins with the Call" kicked off in the Eau Claire area. Fewer than 50 percent of emergency room patients arrive at the ER in an ambulance. EMS crews are trained to respond, and understand the documented benefits of early treatment. [Read article]
