When managing chronic diseases, monitoring progress is a key component of the process. 
In the Northwoods, Ascension Wisconsin hospitals have launched a chronic care program to ensure that patients with Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease have the means for monitoring their health at home. 
“The program provides pulse oximeters and scales to those who are unable to afford the items,” said Cecilia Deede-Bloedorn, BSN, RN, manager of case management for Ascension St. Mary’s Hospital, Rhinelander; Ascension Sacred Heart Hospital, Tomahawk; Ascension Eagle River Hospital and Howard Young Medical Center, part of Ascension, in Woodruff. “By providing these tools for chronic disease management, participants are able to improve their quality of life and increase the opportunity for self-managed care, which can decrease episodes of disease exacerbation and the chance of needed hospitalization.” 
Daily weight monitoring is an important part of managing CHF while ensuring proper oxygen levels is critical for COPD patients and therefore those two devices were made available upon discharge to those without the means to provide for themselves. 
On August 1, the hospitals and clinics of Ascension Wisconsin in central and northern Wisconsin became part of Aspirus.