Valued Voice

The new year has seen major momentum protecting health care workforce well-being. The Dr. Lorna Breen Health Care Provider Protection Reauthorization Act has been signed into law, extending important mental health and burnout prevention programs through September 2030.

The Dr. Lorna Breen Heroes’ Foundation also released updated national maps showing continued progress in removing mental health related barriers for health care professionals. More than three million health workers now have a clearer path to support as national efforts to remove mental health barriers heightens. Across the country, numerous licensure boards, hospitals and care facilities have been recognized for ensuring that licensing and credentialing applications are free from stigmatizing language.

Wisconsin continues to advance this work. The Caring for Wisconsin’s Caregivers initiative launched Phase 1 of a multi phase, multi year effort encouraging hospitals and health systems to take the Wellbeing First Champion Challenge. The Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services is actively reviewing and updating its processes to support healthcare workforce mental health. The Wisconsin Medical Examining Board, recognized as a Wellbeing First Champion in 2025, was the first board in the state to complete this work, setting the pace for subsequent boards to participate. Many Wisconsin hospitals have also achieved or are currently pursuing the Wellbeing First Champion status.

To learn more or get involved, visit the Caring for Wisconsin’s Caregivers webpage, where you can explore how to become a Wellbeing First Champion, access tools and resources, stay updated through News and Spotlight features, connect with national experts, Dr. Stef Simmons and the LBF Credentialing Team, during free office hours, and keep up with upcoming events, next steps and more.

For questions, contact Nadine Allen, who can help connect you with the right resources.