News

1. A current study is being completed to compile a ranking of state Medicaid rates paid to ambulance services.  We know Wisconsin ranks low in rates paid for BLS and ALS patient transportation; however, the final results will be telling.
2. The Affordable Care Act appears to offer insurance plans that cover many hospital charges, but not ambulance transportation.  The greater concern is some of these plan options have much higher deductibles in the thousands of dollars, possibly changing the payer mix to more self-pay patient transports.  This may put an ambulance service more at risk for not getting paid for 911 and other call out requests in serving the public's emergency or medical needs.

To listen to the webcast, click here.

Since 2009, more than 900 leaders across the nation have participated in the Academy, many from Wisconsin during the past couple of years.

Each level is a 15-hour, two-day program presented on consecutive days in comfortable settings that invite participation and openness.  Class size is limited and the sessions are engaging, lively and participatory.

Each course is two-days and costs only $40 - inclusive of both days.  Meals and refreshments are included.  Please note that the levels need to be taken in order.  The previous level is a prerequisite for the next. 

Register on-line at: https://charge.wisc.edu/ruralhealth/workshops.asp

Level One
March 15-16, 2014
Marshfield Fire and Rescue Dept., Marshfield, WI

Level One
April 24-25, 2014
Green County EMS, Monroe, WI

Level Two
April 26-27, 2014
Green County EMS, Monroe, WI

Level Three
July 26-27, 2014
Lemonweir Valley Phone Company, Camp Douglas, WI

Level Four
August 16-17, 2014
Three Bears Lodge, Warrens, WI  

For additional information or if you have a question, contact:  Kathryn Miller, Program Manager, Rural Hospitals & Clinics Program, Wisconsin Office of Rural Health, Phone: 608-261-1891.