Critical Access Hospitals

A Critical Access Hospital (CAH) is often located in a rural part of the state, and it provides short-term hospital stays when someone has a severe injury or illness, an urgent medical condition, or is recovering from surgery. CAHs help provide essential health care services locally, particularly in those areas of the state where the next town may be miles away.

WHA Contact

Brian Potter
Senior Vice President, Finance and Chief Operating Officer
608-274-1820
EMAIL: Brian Potter

In large part, Wisconsin's rural communities derive their characteristics and economic viability from the presence of small hospitals in their town. These facilities face the challenge of how to adapt to ever-changing health care reimbursement configurations and how to continue offering needed services.

A freestanding critical access hospital allows for a measured transition toward an integrated multi-service health care facility. CAHs help preserve local health services and the unique qualities of the small town.