September 12, 2008
Volume 52, Issue 35
[The following article was sent as a news release to the statewide press on September 11, 2008.]
The Wisconsin Hospital Association (WHA) just released information that builds on the commitment Wisconsin hospitals made in 2004 with the launch of the public reporting program, CheckPoint (www.wicheckpoint.org), to make health care transparency, quality and safety top priorities.
Wisconsin hospitals broke new ground in their public reporting efforts by posting several new quality indicators related to a hospital stay, including hospital-specific patient outcomes for several illnesses and procedures. Wisconsin hospitals today support the largest, most expansive voluntary public reporting effort in the nation with more than 70 measures related to the quality of care they provide to patients. The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality has recognized Wisconsin as providing the highest quality care in the nation.
Wisconsin Department of Health Services Secretary Karen Timberlake said Wisconsin hospitals have continued to push the envelope on public reporting to help ensure consumers have information to make informed health care choices.
"Wisconsin is recognized as a national leader when it comes to measuring, reporting and improving the clinical performance of hospitals and physician groups," Timberlake said. "The significant additions to the CheckPoint Web site represent an important next step in the evolution of that leadership role. As a major purchaser of health care services, the Department supports WHA’s efforts to improve health care performance, quality and value."
WHA Chair Ken Buser, president and CEO, Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare – All Saints, Racine, said the CheckPoint program has been a success on many levels.
"The first critical step in any credible quality improvement effort is measurement. Wisconsin hospitals go a step further and publicly report their progress. This kind of transparency moves us forward by giving us the advantage of sharing this information not only with our patients and communities, but also with other hospitals so we can share best practices and accelerate our quality and safety improvements," Buser commented.
The new measures on CheckPoint provide two distinct types of information. The new volume measures tell the public how many times a hospital performed a procedure. The patient outcomes information reports the hospital’s death experience compared to what would be expected at that hospital.
CheckPoint now includes new measures on the following:
Death due to illness – The illnesses included are: heart attack in hospital; heart attack in the emergency room; pneumonia; stroke; heart failure; gastrointestinal bleeding, and hip fracture. The outcomes are listed for every hospital that had at least 30 cases. The results are displayed as expected/better/worse. Because they are calculated for each specific hospital, the results are not comparable to the state and national averages. This information is provided to help consumers understand their risk of death from various illnesses. The expected rate is based on a formula that is specifically calculated for each hospital based on the complexity of patients that it treats and other factors.
Death during a Procedure – The procedures included are: abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA); coronary artery bypass graft (CABG); carotid endarterectomy (CEA); craniotomy; esophageal resection; hip replacement; pancreatic resection; and percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA). As is true with deaths in a hospital due to illness, the expected rate is a specific calculation for each hospital and is not related to the state or national averages.
Volume – The inpatient procedures that now have volume data are: abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA); coronary artery bypass graft (CABG); carotid endarterectomy (CEA); esophageal resection; pancreatic resection; and percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA). There must be five or more cases before the data is displayed for volume.
Dana Richardson, WHA vice president, quality initiatives, said while the new measures broaden the base of information available on each hospital, it is important to review all the information available on CheckPoint to get a more complete picture of the care available before choosing a hospital. In regards to volume, Richardson said although some studies show increased volume correlates to higher quality, a hospital may have high quality without large volume.
"Emergency medical decisions are always made in the best interest of the patient, weighed heavily, of course, on the greatest likelihood of survival. In some situations, it is better to not transport an extremely critical patient and to do the procedure immediately, if appropriate staff is available," Richardson said.
The new indicators build on a robust base of information available on the CheckPoint Web site. In addition to the new hospital measures, significant changes were made to the CheckPoint Web site, including a simpler, more precise navigation system.
WHA President Steve Brenton applauded Wisconsin hospitals for being early adopters of publicly reporting what can at times be uncomfortable data.
"Wisconsin hospitals want patients to be partners in all aspects of their care when possible. Every aspect of CheckPoint is aimed at increasing consumer’s knowledge about how to select and better understand the care that they receive. Our goal is to ensure that every patient receives the highest quality of care possible in every hospital," Brenton said.
Brenton added, "We are in the early stages of consumers taking a more active role in their health care choices. As people bear more financial responsibility for their health care through higher deductibles and co-payments, their desire for information will increase. Wisconsin hospitals want to have information about quality and safety readily available as consumers need it."
National Patient Wristband Color Standard Aligns with WHA RecommendationIn just a few short months since the Wisconsin Hospital Association Board of Directors recommended that Wisconsin hospitals standardize wristband and other color alerts used in their facilities, more than 20 hospitals report they have already implemented the standard (see list below).
Earlier this month, the American Hospital Association issued a recommendation that advised hospitals nationwide to standardize their color-coded patient alert systems to three colors, the same three colors that WHA recommended nearly five months ago.
A multi-stakeholder team of health care experts convened by WHA met to evaluate the need for standardization. At that time, a few states were in the early stages of implementing standards, but there was not a national recommendation. The team, led by WHA’s Dana Richardson, reviewed the work being done in other states and determined that the three colors ultimately recommended by the team and later adopted by the WHA Board would be in the best interest of patients and caregivers alike.
"Wisconsin hospitals recognized that standardizing patient color-coded alerts would offer an additional layer of safety for patients being transferred to a different hospital, and for patient caregivers working in more than one setting. After reviewing standardization efforts that were being considered in other states, the team adopted the same three colors that are now recommended for every hospital in the country," according to Richardson. "Wisconsin was among the first states to voluntarily begin implementing a standard for patient color-coded alerts. It demonstrates once again their commitment to take every step possible to provide the safest, highest quality care in the nation," she added.
In their member advisory issued September 4, the American Hospital Association (AHA) recommends that hospitals use three standardized colors for patient alert wristbands to improve patient safety. Selected based on a review of colors already in use in states like Wisconsin among others, the new wristband guidelines specify that hospitals should use red to signify allergies, yellow for fall risk and purple for do-not-resuscitate preferences.
The WHA Board set a goal to achieve 100 percent voluntary use of the colors listed above by March 1, 2009 among hospitals that use color-coded alerts. The following hospitals report to WHA that they have implemented the color-coded patient alert standards:
Baldwin Area Medical Center, Baldwin
Bellin Hospital, Green Bay
Bellin Psychiatric Center, Green Bay
Beloit Memorial Hospital, Beloit
Burnett Medical Center, Grantsburg
Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin-Fox Valley, Neenah
Chippewa Valley Hospital, Durand
Clement J. Zablocki VA Medical Center, Milwaukee
Curative Care Network, Milwaukee
Fort HealthCare, Fort Atkinson
Hayward Area Memorial Hospital, Hayward
Ladd Memorial Hospital, Osceola
Memorial Medical Center, Ashland
Mercy Health System Corporation, Janesville
St. Clare Hospital & Health Services, Baraboo
St. Croix Regional Medical Center, St. Croix Falls
St. Elizabeth Hospital, Appleton
St. Mary’s Hospital Medical Center, Green Bay
St. Nicholas Hospital, Sheboygan
Waukesha Memorial Hospital, Waukesha
Westfields Hospital, New Richmond
The Wisconsin Hospitals state political action funds fundraising campaign topped the $177,000 mark this week. The state political action funds include the Wisconsin Hospitals Conduit and Wisconsin Hospitals PAC. To date, the campaign garnered a total of $177,187 in contributions. This puts the 2008 campaign at 84 percent of its $210,000 goal.
Individual contributions are up as well. In 2008, 529 individuals have contributed an average of $335. At this same time last year, 506 individuals had contributed an average of $313.
2008 contributors to date are listed below. Individual contributors are by name and affiliated organization. Contributors are listed alphabetically by contribution category.
For more information, contact Jenny Boese at 608-274-1820 or Jodi Bloch at 608-217-9508.
Contributions Ranging from $1 - $249
Abels, Maya Aurora Health Care
Ackerman, Jamie Sacred Heart Hospital
Adams, Daniel Memorial Medical Center - Ashland
Ambs, Kathleen St. Mary’s Hospital
Anderson, Mark Sacred Heart Hospital
Anich, Matthew Memorial Medical Center - Ashland
Arendt, Kathleen Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Ashbeck, Norbert Good Samaritan Health Center of Merrill
Axelsen, Kathern Sacred Heart Hospital
Ayers, Mandy Wisconsin Hospital Association
Baer, James Shawano Medical Center
Barkovich, Catherine Sacred Heart Hospital
Bartingale, Robert St. Vincent Hospital
Bauer, David Sacred Heart Hospital
Beckler, Rick Sacred Heart Hospital
Beglinger, Joan St. Mary’s Hospital
Bellin, Carolyn Froedtert Memorial Lutheran Hospital
Benish, Nancy St. Joseph’s Hospital
Benz, Staci Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Berard, Celse Riverview Hospital Association
Bernklau, Robert Memorial Health Center
Bertsch, Cynthia St. Nicholas Hospital
Bjork, Ted Westfields Hospital
Block, Jennifer Sacred Heart Hospital
Bloom, Deborah Sacred Heart Hospital
Bonnett, Joseph Beaver Dam Community Hospitals
Bosio, David Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Boson, Ann Saint Joseph’s Hospital
Bouvat, Dale Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Bouvat, Dale Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Bowe, Cynthia Sacred Heart Hospital
Bowman, Andrew Sacred Heart Hospital
Bradley, Edward St. Nicholas Hospital
Brauer, Theresa Aurora Medical Center - Manitowoc
Braun, James Flambeau Hospital
Brenholt, Craig St. Mary’s Hospital
Brenny, Terrence Stoughton Hospital Association
Brockman, Susan Meriter Hospital
Bryans, Richard Sacred Heart Hospital
Burgener, Jean Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Burtch, Sue Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Busch, Rebecca Spooner Health System
Buss, Diane St. Mary’s Hospital
Campau, Patricia Columbia St. Mary’s-Columbia Campus
Carlson, Carol Sacred Heart Hospital
Carr Lee, Mary Meriter Hospital
Carrier-Diemer, Peggy Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Casey, Candy Columbia Center
Caven, Michael Memorial Medical Center - Ashland
Ceelen, John Ministry Health Care
Censky, Bill Holy Family Memorial Medical Center
Christensen, Leslie St. Mary’s Hospital
Cich, Dawn St. Mary’s Hospital of Superior
Cisler-Cahill, Lorna Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Clapp, Nicole Grant Regional Health Center
Cleveland, Herbert Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Coblentz, Kathy Jo St. Joseph’s Community Health Services
Cohen, Joan Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Colby, Daniel Mercy Health System
Coller, James St. Mary’s Hospital Medical Center
Colpaert, Gary Froedtert Memorial Lutheran Hospital
Craft, Carolyn St. Joseph’s Hospital
Dalebroux, Steve St. Mary’s Hospital
Danzinger, Marcia Sacred Heart Hospital
Davis, Kathleen Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
DeMars, Nancy Sacred Heart Hospital
Derks, Darla Sacred Heart Hospital
DeWitt, Pamela St. Joseph’s Community Health Services
Dille, Wendy Agnesian HealthCare
Dittrich, Peggy Memorial Health Center
Dougherty, Kim Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Ducommun, Shellie Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Dwyer, Amy Sacred Heart Hospital
Dwyer, Maxine St. Mary’s Hospital
Eady, Diane Sacred Heart Hospital
Ellis, Nancy Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Erickson, William Sacred Heart-St. Mary’s Hospitals
Eskridge, Melissa Sacred Heart Hospital
Evenson, Wendy Sacred Heart Hospital
Ewing, Thomas Aurora Health Care
Facey, Alice St. Clare Hospital and Health Services
Fedie, Robin St. Joseph’s Hospital
Fink, MD, Jordan Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Fisker, Nancy Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Flanagan, Tracy Sacred Heart Hospital
Floyd, Duane Watertown Memorial Hospital
Fochs, Mary Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Folstad, John Sacred Heart Hospital
Fuchs, Thomas St. Joseph’s Hospital
Galfano, Victor Sacred Heart Hospital
Gantner, Sue Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Garavet, Scott Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Garcia, Dawn Sacred Heart Hospital
Gengler, Tim Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Giedd, Jan St. Joseph’s Hospital
Giles, Barbara St. Joseph’s Hospital
Gilmore, Ronald
Gjolberg, Skip St. Joseph’s Hospital
Godden, Scott Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Golden, Joan St. Joseph’s Hospital
Goodyear, Penny Wheaton Franciscan - Milwaukee
Gorecki, Susan Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Govier, Mary Holy Family Memorial Medical Center
Green, Mary Jean Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Groskreutz, Kevin St. Joseph’s Hospital
Gruber, Richard Mercy Health System
Gulan, Maria Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Gullicksrud, Lynn Sacred Heart Hospital
Halberg, Carole St. Mary’s Hospital
Harrop, Pauline Meriter Hospital
Hassemer, Robert Sacred Heart Hospital
Hedrington, Brian Sacred Heart Hospital
Herbert, William Meriter Hospital
Hieb, Laura Bellin Memorial Hospital
Hink, Dawn Sacred Heart Hospital
Hoege, Beverly Reedsburg Area Medical Center
Holmes, Sheri Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Horn, Diane St. Joseph’s Hospital
Huemmer, Paul St. Mary’s Hospital
Iding, Laura Froedtert Memorial Lutheran Hospital
Jablonske, William St. Joseph’s Hospital
Jacobsen, Joan Meriter Hospital
Jahn, Timothy St. Vincent Hospital
Jain, Raj St. Mary’s Hospital
Jay, John Community Memorial Hospital
Jelle, Laura St. Clare Hospital and Health Services
Jensema, Christine St. Nicholas Hospital
Johnson, Jean Sacred Heart Hospital
Johnson, Kimberly Sacred Heart Hospital
Johnson, Patricia Hayward Area Memorial Hospital and
Nursing Home
Jones, Linda Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Juckem, Elizabeth Columbia St. Mary’s-Milwaukee Campus
Kaiser, Ann Sacred Heart Hospital
Karoliussen, Dave Sacred Heart-St. Mary’s Hospitals-Tomahawk
Kell, Tom St. Joseph’s Hospital
Kempen, Patricia Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Klay, Lois St. Joseph’s Hospital
Kleinschmidt, Sharon Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Klinge, Ann Memorial Medical Center - Ashland
Koeppl, Gina St. Mary’s Hospital
Korff, Sally St. Nicholas Hospital
Kowalkowski, Carolyn St. Joseph’s Hospital
Krause, Carolyn Meriter Hospital
Kruse, Joe Franciscan Skemp Healthcare-La Crosse
Land, Andrew Agnesian HealthCare
Lange, Mark Riverview Hospital Association
Larson, Piper Sacred Heart Hospital
Leonard, Mary Kay St. Mary’s Hospital
Lerch, Shawn Columbus Community Hospital
Lien, Kristine Sacred Heart Hospital
Lodes, Mary Waukesha Memorial Hospital
Lucas, Roger Aspirus Wausau Hospital
LuCore, Patricia Sacred Heart Hospital
Luskin, Ronald Arnold and O’Sheridan, Inc.
Lynch, Sue Franciscan Skemp Healthcare-La Crosse
Mackey, Theresa Sacred Heart Hospital
Marks, Susan Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Marsch, Jean St. Vincent Hospital
Mathews, Larry St. Vincent Hospital
Maulson, Andrea St. Mary’s Hospital
Maurer, Mary Holy Family Memorial Medical Center
McCoic, Kristie St. Joseph’s Community Health Services
McKay, Jean Sacred Heart Hospital
McKevett, Timothy Beloit Memorial Hospital
Meicher, John St. Mary’s Hospital
Meyer, Markie Community Memorial Hospital
Mickelson, Ronald St. Clare Hospital and Health Services
Mohr, Carol Sacred Heart Hospital
Mohr, James Riverview Hospital Association
Morauske, Michelle WHA Financial Solutions, Inc.
Mueller, Bonita St. Mary’s Hospital
Mulder, Doris Beloit Memorial Hospital
Myre, Judy Sacred Heart-St. Mary’s Hospitals-Tomahawk
Needham, Jean Westfields Hospital
Neitzel, Kristin Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Nelson, Mark Sacred Heart Hospital
Nemeth, Joseph Mercy Health System
Ness, Nita Sacred Heart Hospital
Nezworski, Joseph Sacred Heart Hospital
Nohelty, Peter Sacred Heart Hospital
Norell, Brett Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Nulsen, Kate Sacred Heart Hospital
Oerter, Tracy Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Olson, Bonnie Sacred Heart Hospital
Onsager, Sandra St. Mary’s Hospital
Ose, Peggy Riverview Hospital Association
Ott, Virginia St. Joseph’s Hospital
Padilla, Gilbert Sacred Heart Hospital
Palecek, Steve Sacred Heart Hospital
Peck, Lori Memorial Health Center
Peiffer, Susan Sacred Heart Hospital
Pengra, Mary Sacred Heart Hospital
Penovich, Carrie Aurora Health Care
Peters, Kenneth Bellin Memorial Hospital
Petersen, Susan Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Peterson, Brenda Sacred Heart Hospital
Peterson, Lawrence St. Mary’s Hospital
Pielhop, Judy Sacred Heart Hospital
Pieters, Donald St. Nicholas Hospital
Piper, Barbara Sacred Heart Hospital
Pittenger, Jeannie Sacred Heart Hospital
Policello, Louise Bay Area Medical Center
Pollard, Dennis Community Memorial Hospital
Poquette, Jane Sacred Heart Hospital
Posthuma, Diane Waupun Memorial Hospital
Powell, Stacey Sacred Heart Hospital
Powers, Mary Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Preston, Mark Sacred Heart Hospital
Prince, Nancy Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Rademacher, David Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Rasmussen, Kathy Hayward Area Memorial Hospital and Nursing Home
Reinke, Kathy Shawano Medical Center
Richbourg, Mary Sacred Heart Hospital
Roethle, Linda Bellin Psychiatric Center
Rooney, Suzanne St. Joseph’s Hospital
Rosien, Shirley Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Rothfuss, James Meriter Hospital
Roundy, Ann Columbus Community Hospital
Rowe-Peplinski, Lisa Riverview Hospital Association
Rubenzer, Deanne St. Joseph’s Hospital
Santini, Kathy Memorial Medical Center - Ashland
Schaefer, Joyce Amery Regional Medical Center
Schaefer, Mark Froedtert Memorial Lutheran Hospital
Schaetzl, Ron St. Clare Hospital and Health Services
Schmidt, Fredrick St. Nicholas Hospital
Schmidt, LaVerne Aurora Lakeland Medical Center
Schneck, Judy Sacred Heart Hospital
Schnell, Carol Sacred Heart Hospital
Schoff, Dennis Sacred Heart Hospital
Schraufnagel, Patricia Memorial Medical Center - Ashland
Schultz, Rebecca Sacred Heart Hospital
Schwoegler, Mary St. Mary’s Hospital
Scinto, Jeanne Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Segerstrom, Amy Sacred Heart Hospital
Selberg, Heidi St. Mary’s Hospital Medical Center
Sergey, Mark Sacred Heart Hospital
Sheehan, Heather Hayward Area Memorial Hospital and Nursing Home
Skulan-Balmer, Anna Sacred Heart Hospital
Skye, Dorothy Sacred Heart-St. Mary’s Hospitals
Smith, Julie Sacred Heart Hospital
Sood, Manu Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Sorenson, Heather Sacred Heart Hospital
Sorenson, Jim Sacred Heart Hospital
Soward, Cindy Sacred Heart Hospital
Sparks, Steven St. Mary’s Hospital
Spindler, Greg Sacred Heart Hospital
Sprengeler, John Sacred Heart Hospital
Stefonek, Duane Sacred Heart-St. Mary’s Hospitals
Stelzer, Jason St. Clare Hospital and Health Services
Stenson, Jill Agnesian HealthCare
Stone, Stacy Sacred Heart Hospital
Storing, Sandy Sacred Heart Hospital
Stout, Johni WHA Financial Solutions, Inc.
Studer, Vince Shawano Medical Center
Sullivan, Anne Memorial Medical Center - Ashland
Swanson, Becky Sacred Heart Hospital
Swiderski, Julie Wheaton Franciscan - Milwaukee
Tandberg, Ann St. Joseph’s Hospital
Tandberg, Christine Sacred Heart Hospital
Tate, Marceline Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Tell, Marge Riverview Hospital Association
Thurmer, DeAnn Waupun Memorial Hospital
Tietz, Llewellyn Community Memorial Hospital
Totka, Joan Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Tryba, Jennifer Aspirus Wausau Hospital
VanDeVoort, John Sacred Heart Hospital
Vogler, Linda Sacred Heart Hospital
Vogt, Paula Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Voigt, Yolanda Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Waldoch, Timothy Froedtert Memorial Lutheran Hospital
Walker, Troy St. Clare Hospital and Health Services
Werlein, George Sacred Heart Hospital
Werner, Andrea Bellin Memorial Hospital
West, Karen Wild Rose Community Memorial Hospital
Westbrook, Diane River Falls Area Hospital
Wheeler, Susan St. Nicholas Hospital
Wiedeman, Karen Sacred Heart-St. Mary’s Hospitals
Wise, Richard Sacred Heart Hospital
Woleske, Chris Bond Health Center
Worthing, Kelli Sacred Heart Hospital
Wymelenberg, Tracy Aurora Health Care
Zaher, Beth
Zemaitis, Tom Sacred Heart Hospital
Zimmerman, Christine Sacred Heart Hospital
Zorbini, John Community Memorial Hospital
Contributions Ranging from $250 - $499
Abitz, John WHA Financial Solutions, Inc.
Arnett, E. Stuart Aurora Health Care-South Region
Ashenhurst, Karla Ministry Health Care
Bagemihl, Katherine Froedtert Memorial Lutheran Hospital
Baker, Chris St. Mary’s Hospital
Bayer, Tom St. Vincent Hospital
Bestor, William Community Memorial Hospital
Biros, Marilyn SSM Health Care-Wisconsin
Blanchard, Michael Saint Joseph’s Hospital
Borgerding, Dana
Brandel, Patrick Holy Family Memorial Medical Center
Bruss, Lori The Roberts Group
Bukowski, Cathy Our Lady of Victory Hospital
Calhoun, William Mercy Medical Center
Callies, Julie WHA Information Center
Canter, Richard Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare
Carlson, Dan Bay Area Medical Center
Clough, Sheila Howard Young Medical Center
Coleman, John
Conwell, Lisa WHA Financial Solutions, Inc.
Cook, Craig Saint Joseph’s Hospital
Cryns, Janice Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Curran, Joan Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center
Danner, Dean Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Deich, Faye Sacred Heart Hospital
Dettman, Amy Bellin Memorial Hospital
Dietsche, James Bellin Memorial Hospital
Dooley, Richard Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Drengler, Kathryn Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Elmer, Paula The Monroe Clinic
Erickson, Robert Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Greene, Roxanne Our Lady of Victory Hospital
Grundstrom, David Flambeau Hospital
Gutekunst, Penny Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Hamilton, Mark
Hammel, Jennifer Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Harding, Edward Columbus Community Hospital
Hattem, Marita Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Hessert, Peter Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Hilt, Monica Sacred Heart-St. Mary’s Hospitals
Huettl, Patty Sacred Heart Hospital
Huggins, Melissa Meriter Hospital
Huys, Geoffrey Ministry Health Care
Jablonski, James Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Jamieson, Donna Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Jenks, David Aurora Health Care
Jensen, Christopher Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Jensen, Russell St. Mary’s Hospital
Jentsch, Lisa Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Johnson, Charles St. Mary’s Hospital
Johnson, Roy Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Jones, Tom St. Joseph’s Community Health Services
Kaufman, Bruce Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Keene, Kaaron Memorial Health Center
Kersten, Juliet Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Kessenich, Patrick Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare -
Elmbrook Memorial
Klauck, James Froedtert Memorial Lutheran Hospital
Kluesner, Kevin Aurora Health Care-South Region
Klunk, Timothy Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Kolb, Marvin O. West Allis Memorial Hospital
Kostroski, Sharon Saint Joseph’s Hospital
Lockhart, MD, Jack Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center
Mantei, Mary Jo Bay Area Medical Center
McCutchin, John St. Joseph’s Hospital
Melzer-Lange, Marlene Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Mourey, Gerald Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Murphy, Michael Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Neet, Bradley Saint Michael’s Hospital
Neikirk, Jon Froedtert Memorial Lutheran Hospital
Nelson, Nanine ProHealth Care
Nevers, Rick Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Nockerts, Steven Richland Hospital
Oberholtzer, Curt Bay Area Medical Center
Olive, Willie Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Olkowski, Leland Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Ordinans, Karen Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Pandl, G. John Froedtert Memorial Lutheran Hospital
Pandl, Therese Columbia St. Mary’s-Milwaukee Campus
Pedretti, Julie Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Peterson, Douglas Chippewa Valley Hospital and Oakview Care Center
Post, A Charles Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Potts, Dennis Aurora Health Care
Ross, Forrest WHA Financial Solutions, Inc.
Rounds, Thomas St. Mary’s Hospital
Rowe, Jeanne Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Rozenfeld, Jonathan St. Mary’s Hospital
Rudolph, Wade Sacred Heart Hospital
Sagan, Jean Wheaton Franciscan - Milwaukee
Sanicola, Suzanne Columbia St. Mary’s-Columbia Campus
Schmidt, Richard CGSchmidt
Schneider, David Langlade Memorial Hospital
Schroeder, Larry Sauk Prairie Memorial Hospital
Schulz, Janet ProHealth Care
Sczygelski, Sidney Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Shapiro, David Columbia St. Mary’s-Columbia Campus
Sisney, Mary Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Sperka, Julie Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Staffileno, Gerri Columbia St. Mary’s Ozaukee Campus
Statz, Darrell Rural Wisconsin Health Cooperative
Stewart, Jeff Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Stuart, Philip Tomah Memorial Hospital
Tapper, Joy Milwaukee Health Care Partnership
Thiel, Mike Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Thometz, John Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Twinem, Thomas Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
VanCourt, Bernie Bay Area Medical Center
Vogel, Martin Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Wade, Matthew ProHealth Care
Warmuth, Eric
Weisman, Steven Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Werner, Cinda Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Woodward, Jim Meriter Hospital
Worrick, Gerald Door County Memorial Hospital
Contributions Ranging from $500 - $999
Allison Stonebraker, Pat Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Andersen, Travis St. Elizabeth Hospital
Anderson, Sandy St. Clare Hospital and Health Services
Banaszynski, Gregory Aurora Health Care
Barnett, Jane
Bloch, Jodi Wisconsin Hospital Association
Braddock, Michelle WHA Financial Solutions, Inc.
Brasseaux, Mary St. Nicholas Hospital
Buerstatte, Gary ProHealth Care
Bultema, Janice
Decker, Michael Divine Savior Healthcare
Devermann, Robert Aurora Medical Center of Oshkosh
Duncan, Larry Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Dunigan, Thomas Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Falvey, Patrick Aurora Health Care
Fehring, Chuck Ministry Health Care
Fish, David St. Joseph’s Hospital
Fitzpatrick, Lynn Agnesian HealthCare
Frank, Jennifer Wisconsin Hospital Association
Guffey, Kerra Meriter Hospital
Gutzeit, Michael Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Heifetz, Michael SSM Health Care-Wisconsin
Herzog, Mark Holy Family Memorial Medical Center
Hyland, Carol Agnesian HealthCare
Hymans, Daniel Memorial Medical Center - Ashland
Jones, Michael Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Kerwin, George Bellin Memorial Hospital
Korom, Nancy Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Little, Steven Agnesian HealthCare
Maxson-Cooper, Pamela Froedtert Memorial Lutheran Hospital
McGee, Fred Meriter Hospital
McNally, Maureen Froedtert Memorial Lutheran Hospital
Merline, Karen
Miloszewicz, Angela Wisconsin Hospital Association
Minkus, Michelle
Mlynarek, Robert Waukesha Memorial Hospital
Mugan, James Agnesian HealthCare
Neufelder, Daniel Affinity Health System
Niemer, Margaret Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Noll, Gerald Rogers Memorial Hospital
Norton, Andrew Froedtert Memorial Lutheran Hospital
O’Connell, Blaine Froedtert Memorial Lutheran Hospital
Postler-Slattery, Diane Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Potter, Brian Wisconsin Hospital Association
Quinn, Connie
Radoszewski, Pat Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Reynolds, Sheila Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Richards, Theresa Saint Joseph’s Hospital
Robertstad, John Oconomowoc Memorial Hospital
Roeper, Randy Aurora Medical Center of Oshkosh
Ronstrom, Stephen Sacred Heart Hospital
Runge, Charles Froedtert Memorial Lutheran Hospital
Russell, John Boscobel Area Health Care
Sachdeva, Ramesh Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Sale, Nora Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Schafer, Michael Spooner Health System
Schmidt, Michael Saint Joseph’s Hospital
Schoof, Susie Essie Kammer Consulting Group
Shabino, MD, Charles Wisconsin Hospital Association
Ship, Mark Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Teigen, Bobbe
Titus, Rexford ProHealth Care
Wallace, Michael Fort HealthCare
Welch, Kimberly Aurora Health Care
Wong, George Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Contributions Ranging from $1000 - $1999
Bazan, Bill Wisconsin Hospital Association
Birkenstock, Timothy Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Boese, Jennifer Wisconsin Hospital Association
Brenton, Mary E.
Brideau, Leo Columbia St. Mary’s-Columbia Campus
Britton, Gregory Beloit Memorial Hospital
Bruce, Bill St. Joseph’s Community Health Services
Buettner, Susan Aurora Health Care
Byrne, Frank St. Mary’s Hospital
Christensen, Cinthia Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Cutler, Dave WHA Financial Solutions, Inc.
Eddy, Lee Anne Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Eichman, Cynthia Our Lady of Victory Hospital
Ela, Susan Aurora Health Care
Erwin, Duane Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Gazzana, Thomas Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Getto, MD, Carl
Grasmick, Mary Kay Wisconsin Hospital Association
Kachelski, Barb
Kachelski, Joe Wisconsin Hospital Association
Karuschak, Michael Amery Regional Medical Center
Kief, Brian Howard Young Medical Center
Koehler, Thomas Aurora BayCare Medical Center
Kosanovich, John Watertown Memorial Hospital
Kryda, MD, Michael Saint Joseph’s Hospital
Leitch, Laura Wisconsin Hospital Association
Loftus, Philip Aurora Health Care
Mahoney, Lorelle Aurora Health Care
Martin, Jeff Ministry Health Care
Merline, Paul Wisconsin Hospital Association
Mettner, Michelle Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Mohorek, Ronald Ministry Health Care
Morgan, Dwight Aurora Health Care
Moulthroup, David Rogers Memorial Hospital
Munson, Kenneth Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Nestor, Donald Aurora Health Care
O’Brien, Mary Aurora St. Luke’s Medical Center
Olson, David Bay Area Medical Center
Olson, Edward Waukesha Memorial Hospital
Richardson, Dana Wisconsin Hospital Association
Roller, Rachel Aurora Health Care
Sanders, Michael The Monroe Clinic
Size, Pat
Smith, Linda Aurora BayCare Medical Center
Stanford, Matthew Wisconsin Hospital Association
Starmann-Harrison, Mary SSM Health Care-Wisconsin
Tyre, Scott Capitol Navigators, Inc
Van Bree, Margaret
Van Cleave, Bruce Aurora Health Care
Warmuth, Judith Wisconsin Hospital Association
Westrick, Paul Columbia St. Mary’s-Milwaukee Campus
Contributions Ranging from $2000 - $2999
Bjork, Tanya
Borgerding, Eric Wisconsin Hospital Association
Braddock, Jonathan WHA Financial Solutions, Inc.
Buser, Kenneth Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare - All Saints
Fale, Robert Agnesian HealthCare
Katen-Bahensky, Donna
Petasnick, William Froedtert Memorial Lutheran Hospital
Quinn, George Wisconsin Hospital Association
Rudolph, Colin Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Vice, Jon Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin
Contributions $3000 and up
Brenton, Stephen Wisconsin Hospital Association
Desien, Nicholas Ministry Health Care
Size, Tim Rural Wisconsin Health Cooperative
Turkal, MD, Nick Aurora Health Care
Hospital Payments to Increase in HIRSP ProgramWisconsin hospitals will soon begin seeing increased reimbursement under the Health Insurance Risk-Sharing Plan (HIRSP), the state’s "insurer of last resort" for approximately 16,000 uninsurable individuals, while costs for the program as a whole have been lower than expected.
The HIRSP Authority Board of Directors voted on September 8 to increase inpatient reimbursement rates by approximately 10.6 percent, retroactive to January 1, 2008. In 2009, reimbursement will increase another 18 percent for both inpatient and outpatient services.
The 2008 change is the result of an inaccurate estimate of hospital inpatient costs related to the transition from a DRG-based reimbursement system in 2007 to MS-DRGs in 2008. Because some DRGs cross-walk to two or three separate MS-DRGs, the process of modeling 2008 reimbursement rates included some inaccurate assumptions about how the old DRGs would translate into MS-DRGs. The resulting payment rates to hospitals were lower in aggregate than they should have been.
All 2008 inpatient claims will be retroactively adjusted according to the new reimbursement methodology. Supplemental payments for those claims will be issued in 2009.
The 2009 rates for hospital inpatient and outpatient services are the result of an increase of five and four percent, respectively, in the HIRSP fee schedule, coupled with an increase of around 13 percent needed to reconcile the provider "account" within the HIRSP funding formula. By law, policyholders pay 60 percent of program costs and insurers (through assessments) and providers (through discounts) fund 20 percent each. Because overall HIRSP costs have been lower than expected, the discounts applied to provider reimbursement have caused providers to over-contribute to the program. The 13 percent increase above and beyond the fee-schedule change is meant to spend down most of the provider surplus in 2009.
Policyholders and insurers will also pay less than their statutory share of program costs in 2009 to draw down surpluses in their accounts. Nearly 10 percent of HIRSP enrollees will see a premium-rate decrease in 2009, and more than 50 percent will pay less than five percent more than they did in 2008.
Guest Column: Medicaid Issues Demand Candidate Education and the Public’s AttentionIn his President’s column last week Steve Brenton posed this question for policymakers—"What’s Your Plan for Medicaid?"
That’s a question WHA staff have been asking dozens of legislative candidates (incumbents and challengers) in one-on-one meetings all across the state. In addition to traveling thousands of miles over some of Wisconsin’s most beautiful byways, these meetings have underscored the need to continuously educate legislators (current and future) about the too long neglected issue of hospital Medicaid (MA) payments and why they should care.
Here are just a few of the facts we’ve been sharing while out on the road:
Road-tripping to educate candidates about these issues is not the end, but rather the beginning. The public must also be made aware of the impact this seemingly obscure issue is having on their lives, particularly the cost they pay for health care.
Since WHA staff can’t meet with all of Wisconsin, we will turn to the next best thing – the radio. Next week we will take to the airwaves in what will be the first step in an extended public education campaign to raise awareness and illustrate in simple terms what can otherwise be a complex issue to convey—Wisconsin is not getting its fair share of federal revenue, health care costs are rising as a result, and state legislators need to do something about it.
WHA, RWHC, DQA Meet in Quarterly Hospital ForumWHA’s Laura Leitch and the Rural Wisconsin Health Cooperative’s (RWHC) Tim Size met with Division of Quality Assurance (DQA) staff Cremear Mims, Jane Walters, and others in the most recent "Hospital Forum," a quarterly meeting of staff from DQA, WHA, and the RWHC. The DQA staff provided the following information:
Bill Sexton has been named to succeed Harold Brown as CEO at Prairie du Chien Memorial Hospital. Sexton was president of the National Rural Health Association in 2006 and received the American Hospital Association’s Grassroots Champion Award that same year. Sexton currently works for Providence Health and Services, headquartered in Seattle, Washington as the chief executive for the north coast service area in Oregon where he has served for the past eight years. Prior to that, he was the administrator/CEO in Sparta, Wisconsin for 10 years.
Sexton is a retired Lieutenant Colonel in the US Air Force Medical Service Corps where he served for more than 20 years. Sexton’s last duties in the Air Force were in the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Health Affairs). His responsibilities were for the health care of all uniformed services members, retirees and families with 11 million beneficiaries and an annual budget of $15 billion.
He will begin his work at Prairie du Chien Memorial Hospital October 5.
In Memoriam: John SchulerJohn Schuler, the first president and CEO of Columbia St. Mary’s, passed away September 11, 2008. John stepped down from his role at Columbia St. Mary’s due to health reasons in 2001. He had a long and distinguished record of leadership and service to Milwaukee and to the health care industry statewide.
John served as president and CEO of Columbia Hospital & Columbia Health System from 1985 until 1995 when he became president and CEO of Columbia St. Mary’s. He began his career in 1973 at Columbia Hospital as an administrative fellow while obtaining his master’s degree in business administration with an emphasis in hospital and health administration at Northwestern University. He held many administrative and executive positions at Columbia Hospital throughout his career. He had the vision, together with Sister Renee Rose, to create what is today Columbia St. Mary’s. He led the organization during a critically important part of its development.
John was admired and respected by hospital executives across Wisconsin. He demonstrated a longstanding commitment to the Wisconsin Hospital Association and its activities over the past 25 plus years. He served as WHA chair in 1991 and in 1999 received the Association’s Distinguished Service Award.
John was a warm and very special human being. He will be sorely missed by all of his colleagues within the Columbia St. Mary’s and Columbia Health System family of physicians, staff, volunteers and community leaders. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Sally, and sons Justin and Jared at this sad time.
WHA Financial Solutions: Timely Reporting of Workers’ Compensation ClaimsEach state has reporting requirements for workers’ compensation claims. Most states impose a fine for injuries that are reported by the employer after the statutory reporting date. Wisconsin has a three day waiting period after the last day worked. If the disability exceeds seven calendar days, the benefits are payable back to day one of the disability. The benefits are payable 14 days after the last day worked.
The National Council on Compensation Insurance found that injuries reported four to five weeks after occurrence are 45 percent more expensive than similar injuries that are reported promptly. Claims not reported in a timely manner are more likely to go into litigation, which generally drives up the costs to defend the claim and leads to higher settlements.
On minor injuries or unwitnessed accidents where an employer may suspect fraud, some employers resist filing the first report of injury. Filing the first report of injury does not commit the employer to liability. If there are any doubts, file the claim and inform the carrier of your concerns.
If your organization has problems with timely reporting of injuries, contact Matt Wahoske at mwahoske@fincorsolutions.com or 608-469-8590 for assistance in improving reporting procedures.
Community Benefits: Stories From Our Hospitals - Southwest Health Center, PlattevilleNovember is National Alzheimer’s Disease Month. In an effort to raise awareness and educate those interested or concerned about memory loss, Southwest Health Center Senior Behavioral Sciences offers the general public free panel discussion programs focusing on questions and concerns about Alzheimer’s disease and other memory loss, along with free memory screenings and a presentation titled, "We All Forget: Is it normal aging or should I be concerned?"
Alzheimer’s disease and other memory loss is becoming a serious issue for our aging population. One in ten people over the age of 65 are affected by memory loss, and if current population trends continue, it is estimated that 14 million people will by affected by 2050.
On select dates in November, representatives from Southwest Health Center’s Memory Diagnostic Clinic and the Alzheimer’s Association are available to answer questions and raise awareness about Alzheimer’s and memory loss. The panel discussions, screenings, and presentations are held at Southwest Health Center, 1400 East Side Road, Platteville.
Community Benefits: Stories From Our Hospitals - Shawano Medical Center, ShawanoJust out of jail, unemployed, and in pain: it’s a life situation that would prove daunting for anyone. That "anyone" was "Steve," a 44-year-old man who came to Shawano Medical Center (SMC) for care.
After being released from jail, Steve (his name has been changed) was unable to find a job. Not only was he carrying his jail record with him, his knee, as he put it, "kept popping out." With this disabling condition came extreme pain.
"Who is going to hire me?" he asked Nancy Amundson, the SMC patient financial counselor. "They look at my record, then my knee, and they won’t even talk to me."
Steve was seen at the Shawano Medical Center Riverside Clinic. Dr. Kshamata Shalini’s assessment was that Steve needed an MRI, then possibly surgery of his knee. After his clinic visit, Steve met with Nancy.
Nancy told him he qualified for SMC’s Community Care, and helped him make sure the application was in place before his surgery. Steve had his knee surgery at SMC, and has been recovering with the support of his extended family.
"We applied 100 percent of his treatment, including the MRI and surgery, to Community Care. It totaled about $9,000," Nancy said.
Today he is walking better, has more confidence, and has better prospects for his life.
"He tells me today he feels as though he would be able to get a job now, as his knee is slowly healing," Nancy said.
Community Benefits: Stories From Our Hospitals - Beaver Dam Community Hospitals, Inc., Beaver DamBeaver Dam Community Hospitals, Inc. is a major partner in a community collaboration that provides health care for people with limited, or no, insurance.
Church Health Services, Inc. (CHS) was created in 1993 to meet the increasing health care needs of the medically underserved. Under the leadership of Dr. Michael Augustson, CHS provides access to a full continuum of health care services to people in Beaver Dam and the surrounding area. Beaver Dam Community Hospitals, Inc. has, from the outset, provided funding, materials, and donations of time and equipment to support this much-needed service.
Christine is a patient who was referred to CHS by her family physician. Shortly after retiring and moving to Beaver Dam in 2006, Christine was diagnosed with inflammatory breast cancer. With limited means and no insurance to cover the cost of treatment, she was unsure where to turn until the referral to CHS. Christine was able to receive the treatment and services she needed to fight her disease with the help of CHS and Beaver Dam Community Hospitals, Inc., through the Dodge County Breast Health Initiative.
Two years after receiving treatment, Christine is doing well and is giving thanks and praise to her physicians, to Church Health Services, and to the Breast Health nurses at Beaver Dam Community Hospitals.
Community Benefits: Stories From Our Hospitals - River Falls Area Hospital, River FallsThe Free Clinic of Pierce and St. Croix Counties provides a source of health care for those with nowhere else to turn. The clinic offers preventive health care, including prescription assistance, and referral for needed specialty care. To qualify for services, patients must meet two eligibility guidelines – they must be low-income (defined as living at or below 185 percent of the federal poverty level) and be uninsured with no other source of care. While the Free Clinic’s mission is to provide care to residents of Pierce and St. Croix County, residents of other counties who present at the clinic are not turned away. The clinic serves an average of 30 patients each week on a first come, first serve basis, and all services – including prescription drugs – are provided free of charge.
When a patient recently presented with urologic complications, a local urologist agreed to see the patient pro-bono. When the urologist recommended surgery, the clinic and hospital staff partnered together to ensure the patient received the surgical care he needed and that all of the fees for the surgery were covered.
The Free Clinic is supported by the River Falls Area Hospital, the Kinnickinnic Valley Health & Education Foundation, and the River Falls Medical Clinic. The River Falls Area Hospital is one of the clinic’s founding partners and continues to provide significant support to the clinic, including lab and radiology services as well as staff support – especially for fundraising efforts. In addition, six hospital employees serve on the Free Clinic’s board of directors, including three on the executive committee and many employees volunteer at the Free Clinic on Tuesday evenings.
The Free Clinic focuses on helping patients in need. Patients usually have a wide range of symptoms and many are ultimately diagnosed with chronic conditions. When patients need follow-up care with specialty providers, clinic staff and volunteers work with community partners to arrange for the needed services to ensure patients receive the care they need.
Submit hospital community benefit stories to Mary Kay Grasmick, editor, at