Understanding sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is crucial for everyone’s health and well-being. These conditions can affect anyone who is sexually active, regardless of their background or lifestyle. Our goal is to empower you with information that helps you take control of your sexual health and to destigmatize STIs. Regular STI testing is an essential part of maintaining health and wellness.

Why STI Testing Matters

Regular STI testing is a critical component of maintaining your health. Many STIs are asymptomatic, showing no signs or symptoms. Without testing, you might not detect these infections, which could lead to more severe health issues. Regular testing is the best way to catch these infections early and start treatment.

Treatment Options

Fortunately, most STIs are treatable. Treatments range from antibiotics for bacterial infections to management strategies for chronic conditions. Early detection through regular testing is crucial. Treating STIs early helps you avoid many long-term health complications.

Breaking Down the Stigma

The stigma surrounding STI testing and treatment is a major barrier. It’s time to change the narrative around STIs. They do not reflect one’s morality or character; they are health issues requiring medical attention. When diagnosing and treating STIs, we believe providers should approach these conditions with empathy and understanding.

Empowerment Through Education

Being informed is your first line of defense against STIs. Understanding how STIs are transmitted, recognizing the importance of regular testing, and knowing the available treatment options enables you to make informed decisions about your health. Education is a powerful tool for preventing STIs and reducing the stigma associated with them.

Taking Action with STI Testing

If you are sexually active, integrate STI testing into your regular health routine. Engage in open conversations with your health care provider and sexual partners about STI testing to create a supportive environment for everyone. Remember, seeking help and receiving treatment is a sign of taking responsibility for your health, not a cause for shame. We encourage you to view sexual health as a vital part of your overall well-being. Actively managing your sexual health is a decisive step towards a healthier life.

Ready to take the next step? Contact your Primary Care Provider about STI testing. An appointment may not be required, so call your primary care clinic today.

This April, we celebrate the ConnectRx Wisconsin initiative that helps Black mothers and their babies. Now in its second year, this innovative care coordination system continues to provide medical care and address essential social needs that contribute to the overall well-being for Black pregnant women and birthing persons in Dane County. Coinciding with this anniversary is Black Maternal Health Week, a time dedicated to recognizing and addressing the health challenges of Black mothers.

A Vision for Health Equity

ConnectRx Wisconsin was launched by the Dane County Health Council and The Foundation for Black Women’s Wellness to bridge the health disparity gap in our community, particularly in maternal and child health. The initiative was created to eliminate disparities in low-weight births between Black and white women in Dane County, where Wisconsin has one of the highest Black infant mortality rates in the United States. The Saving Our Babies Report, which includes community-based and system-level recommendations, led to the launch of the Saving Our Babies Initiative in 2019 and the Black Maternal and Child Health Alliance of Dane County in 2020 and paved the way for ConnectRx Wisconsin.

The Heart of ConnectRx Wisconsin

At the core of ConnectRx Wisconsin is a comprehensive screening process, identifying participants who could benefit most from the program. To qualify, patients must:

1. Identify as African American/Black
2. Have a positive pregnancy test
3. Screen positive for one or more of the five Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) domains, including:
   
   • Housing
   • Financial stability strain
   • Food insecurity
   • Transportation
   • Stress

Once enrolled, individuals work with dedicated community health workers. These professionals guide participants with crucial resources like housing support, financial assistance and accessible health care services.

Making a Difference Together

Over the past two years, ConnectRx Wisconsin has not only improved health outcomes of Black mothers, but has also empowered them with the proper support to create brighter futures for their children.

Since April 2022, ConnectRx Wisconsin has referred 674 Black pregnant patients who were identified as high-risk for coordinated care. Out of these, 600 patients were given essential resources such as housing, food, transportation, and financial assistance. Among the 411 Black pregnant patients who chose to enroll in ConnectRx Wisconsin for additional birthing support, 234 healthy births have occurred, including 172 doula-supported births. This showcases the valuable role of doulas in achieving positive birth outcomes.

During the 20-month evaluation period of ConnectRx Wisconsin, 90% of babies born with doula support reached optimal gestational age, and an impressive 84% were born at a healthy birth weight. These statistics address a critical factor in reducing Black infant mortality rates. Furthermore, in year one, 68% of clients avoided medical interventions, while an unprecedented 94% initiated breastfeeding. These outcomes foster healthier beginnings for both mothers and babies alike.

The program’s success is a testament to the power of community, collaboration and technology. We are proud to be part of the list of program partners below, working together to help address these health disparities to make a positive difference.

• Access Community Health Centers
• GHC-SCW
• SSM St. Mary’s
• Madison Metropolitan School District
• Public Health Madison Dane County
• United Way of Dane County
• UnityPoint Health –Meriter
• UW Health

A Week of Reflection and Action for Black Maternal Health

Black Maternal Health Week is April 11-17. This time reminds us of the work still required to ensure that all mothers, regardless of race, have access to the care and support they deserve. ConnectRx Wisconsin embodies the spirit of this week throughout the year by actively working to dismantle barriers. The goal of this initiative is to foster a world where every pregnancy is safe, respected and celebrated.

Looking Ahead with Hope

As we reflect on the accomplishments of the ConnectRx Wisconsin program and the importance of Black Maternal Health Week, we continue supporting and uplifting Black mothers in our community. Together, we can continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of countless families. We also continue to work towards ensuring all have the care and support they need to live a healthy life.

Group Health Cooperative of South Central Wisconsin (GHC-SCW) is proud to introduce our Autism Spectrum Treatment Program. This program is designed to help kids aged 6 to 16 with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their parents or caregivers. We’ll explain what this program is all about, why it’s helpful, and how you can get started.

Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder

First, let’s talk about ASD, which stands for Autism Spectrum Disorder. It’s a condition that can affect how someone interacts with others, communicates and behaves. Kids with ASD might have trouble making friends and handling their feelings. GHC-SCW wants to help these kids and their families, and we’ve created this special program to support their growth and development.

Autism Spectrum Treatment Program Focus and Approach

The GHC-SCW Autism Spectrum Treatment Program is made just for kids with ASD and their parents or caregivers. Here are some key things to know about it:

1. Home-Based Care: We know that being comfortable at home is important for kids with ASD. Our program happens in your home, where your child can feel relaxed and supported.
2. Proven Methods: Our program uses techniques proven to help kids with ASD. We want to give our members the best care possible to meet their needs.

Program Details

• Who can join: Kids with Autism Spectrum Disorder, aged 6 to 16, and their parents or caregivers who live in Dane County.
• How long: You’ll have weekly appointments for up to 16 weeks.
• Where: It all happens in your home, which is convenient and familiar to your child.

Here’s how the sessions work:

• Kids’ Learning: At each session, kids will learn a new skill and practice it with the help of a trained professional.
• Parent Involvement: Caregivers will be part of the program too. You’ll learn how to support your child’s social and emotional growth. This includes coaching your child as they use their new skills.

Getting Started

To join the Autism Spectrum Treatment Program, there are several requirements that must be met:

1. The child must have a medical diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder.
2. The child must be able to communicate in full sentences.
3. The home where appointments take place must be in Dane County.
4. Family must have an active GHC HMO insurance plan (at this time, we are not able to accept other insurance plans for this program). If you have questions about coverage, please contact our Member Services team at (608) 828-4853 or toll-free at (800) 605-4327 and request Member Services.

If your child meets all the requirements:

• Talk to Your Primary Care Provider: Contact your primary care provider to see if this program is right for your child. They’ll help you figure out what you need to do and make sure you meet the requirements.
• Get a Referral and Authorization: You’ll need a referral from your primary care provider and prior authorization from your insurance for any Autism Spectrum-related services. Your healthcare team will help you with these steps.

 

For non-GHC-SCW in-network providers, we have provided two helpful online referral forms they can fill out for qualifying patients for this program:

 

ASD Referral for Diagnosis Form

 

ASD Referral for Treatment Form

 

GHC-SCW wants to give our members the best care possible, including those with behavioral health conditions. We strive to support kids with ASD and their families as they work toward better social and emotional well-being. If you think this program will help your child, talk to your primary care provider to see if it’s a good fit.