One of the most important health concerns identified by the most recent St. Croix County Community Health Needs Assessment is the increased need for mental health services. In response to this, Western Wisconsin Health (WWH) developed a Behavioral Health Program for local school districts that allows providers to see adolescent patients at the school, during school hours.  This solution reduces two access-to-care barriers, by providing behavioral health services at a convenient location; and giving time back to the school so the child does not miss as much class time and the family does not have to schedule an appointment after work.
 
WWH partnered with the school districts of Baldwin-Woodville, Spring Valley, and Elmwood in 2022 to provide Behavioral Health Counseling.  Last year, four WWH providers, Morgan Miller, Luke Owens, Nicole Helgeson and Lindsey Berg consistently counseled over 86 patients throughout the school year, with the cost of care totaling $322,220.  WWH paid for the insurance coverage gap along with the provider travel expenses yielding a calculated community benefit of $158,220.
 
Through the most difficult times in a child’s young life, Western Wisconsin Health and its behavioral health providers are invested in supporting their overall health and wellness through mind, body, and spirit.  The WWH school based behavioral health program is just one of the many ways Western Wisconsin Health is redefining rural healthcare to help achieve our mission of Building a Healthier Tomorrow, together.