What is Tdap?
The Tdap vaccine protects against three serious diseases:
- Tetanus (lockjaw) – Causes painful muscle stiffness and can be deadly.
- Diphtheria – A dangerous throat infection that can lead to breathing problems and heart failure.
- Pertussis (whooping cough) – A highly contagious cough that can cause severe illnesses, especially in babies
Diphtheria and Pertussis are both spread from person to person through infectious droplets in the air, by coughing or sneezing. Tetanus, however, is not contagious and can’t be spread from person to person. People can get tetanus from infections of cuts or open wounds when soil, dust or feces enter the body through the broken skin. Most often this happens with injuries such as puncture wounds, crush injuries, burns or animal bites.
Why Should You Get the Tdap Vaccine?
Not only does the vaccine protect you, but it also protects those around you, such as babies who are too young to be fully vaccinated. Getting the vaccine also reduces the spread of disease in your community. This vaccine may also be required or recommended for school, work or if you’re pregnant.
The Tdap vaccine is very safe! Side effects are usually mild, such as a sore arm or low fever, and they go away quickly.
Who Should Get the Tdap Vaccine
The Tdap vaccine is recommended for:
- Adolescents around age 11 or 12
- Pregnant women during each of their pregnancies (typically between 27 and 36 weeks)
- Any adults who are around infants or haven’t had a booster in 10 or more years
- Health care workers and caregivers
When Should You Get It?
Everyone should get the vaccine once, either as a teen or an adult. A Td or Tdap booster should then be done every 10 years. Pregnant women should also get the vaccine during each pregnancy to protect their babies from whooping cough. If you’re unsure of your vaccination history, don’t hesitate to get this vaccine anytime! It’s safe to catch up on vaccinations and create a new routine.
Talk with your health care provider today about getting your Tdap vaccine! Protect yourself and those around you from preventable illnesses.
Group Health Cooperative of South Central Wisconsin (GHC-SCW) is excited to announce the winners of the 2025 GHC-SCW Pre-Professional Medical Diversity Scholarship to three current University of Wisconsin–Madison students.
This scholarship program is part of GHC-SCW’s ongoing efforts to improve health outcomes for patients from diverse backgrounds and lessen racial and ethnic health disparities. The scholarships provide financial assistance and mentorship to health care professionals from underrepresented backgrounds, promoting a more inclusive health care environment.
The 2025 scholarship winners are:
- Saba Moges (University of Wisconsin–Madison, Anticipated Degree: Doctor of Nursing Practice in Pediatric Primary Care)
- Evelyn Quarm (University of Wisconsin–Madison, Anticipated Degree: Doctor of Nursing Practice with a specialty in Adult-Gerontology Primary Care)
- Steven Xiong (University of Wisconsin–Madison, Anticipated Degree: Doctor of Medicine)
Students who identify as Black, Indigenous, Asian and/or Hispanic/Latinx and are enrolled in a Wisconsin-based Doctor of Medicine (MD), Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO), physician assistant (PA) or nurse practitioner (NP) program in Wisconsin were eligible to apply for the 2025 GHC-SCW Pre-Professional Medical Diversity Scholarship. Each winner receives a $5,000 scholarship, which they can use how they see fit (tuition, books, etc.), and the chance to gain hands-on experience through an on-site shadowing opportunity at GHC-SCW.
“Research shows that when our health care teams reflect the diversity of the communities we serve, care improves, patients feel seen, outcomes strengthen and lives are lengthened,” stated Dr. Matthew Swedlund, Senior Medical Director at GHC-SCW. He continued, “Supporting clinicians from backgrounds underrepresented in medicine is an essential step toward achieving equitable, high-quality care for all patients.”
Candidates were asked to submit essays on the importance of diverse health care providers across all communities and share what inspired them to pursue a health care career. Each of the 2025 winners brings unique insights, experience and commitment to diversity and equity in health care. They shared their impactful perspectives on diversity in health care settings in their essays:
- Saba Moges: “While working in a primary care clinic on the north side of Milwaukee, I saw firsthand how treatment and care for patients can suffer when the majority of the healthcare staff does not reflect the community they serve. Yes, this made me angry, but it also lit a fire in me to be part of changing that. When patients are cared for by providers who reflect their backgrounds— or who are trained to understand their lived experiences—they are more likely to feel respected and to engage fully in their care.”
- Evelyn Quarm: “As someone who immigrated to the United States and navigated the health care system from both the patient and provider perspectives, I understand how cultural barriers can lead to miscommunication, mistrust, and even misdiagnosis. Diverse providers help bridge these gaps not only through language or cultural familiarity, but by advocating for more inclusive practices and policies within the health care system.”
- Steven Xiong: “Providers from underrepresented backgrounds often see what others do not. They notice blind spots, question assumptions, and offer solutions grounded in personal and cultural awareness. No formal medical training can match the value of the lived experiences that diverse doctors bring—experiences that foster equity, trust, and culturally sensitive care.”
GHC-SCW honored the 2025 Pre-Professional Medical Diversity Scholarship winners at a luncheon that took place on Thursday, October 16, 2025.
Salma Salama, a previous scholarship recipient, says, “I’m incredibly thankful for organizations like GHC that not only acknowledge the importance of diversity in health care but also take concrete steps to support students like me. I eagerly look forward to becoming a role model for minority children, students, and professionals alike.”
The scholarship is just one of the ways GHC-SCW demonstrates its commitment to supporting BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) individuals in health care. Our organization also offers a variety of programs designed to help people from diverse backgrounds access quality health care, acknowledging that it is crucial to break down barriers and enhance health outcomes for minority communities. From contributing to the ConnectRx WI program for pregnancy well-being for individuals who identify as Black to our Refugee Assistance Program and beyond, we remain committed to addressing inequities with shared knowledge and meaningful collaboration.
From left to right: Dr. Matthew Swedlund, Senior Medical Director; Steven Xiong; Saba Moges; Evelyn Quarm.
About GHC-SCW
Proudly serving over 68,000 members, Group Health Cooperative of South Central Wisconsin (GHC-SCW) is Wisconsin’s first, and Dane County’s only, member-owned, non-profit health care cooperative, ensuring patients and members are at the top of the leadership chart, giving them a voice in their health care. Services extend across greater Dane County and select areas in South Central Wisconsin, offering insurance coverage and clinical care.
Celebrating almost 50 years, GHC-SCW is the first health plan in Wisconsin to offer patients a money-back guarantee if they are dissatisfied with their experience at a GHC-SCW clinic. GHC-SCW is perennially a national leader in quality. GHC-SCW has received a 4.5 out of 5 Commercial rating according to the National Committee for Quality Assurance‘s (NCQA) Commercial Health Plan Ratings for 2025. They are highly dedicated to giving back to the community and partnering with local organizations to create positive change. To learn more about GHC-SCW, visit ghcscw.com.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. With Breast Cancer being the second most common cancer among women, this is a time to spread awareness, show support for those affected and honor the memory of those we have lost.
Did you know that one in eight women will be diagnosed with Breast Cancer in their lifetime? The good news is that when caught early, while still confined to the breast, the 5-year survival rate in the U.S. is 99%. Mammograms are essential for early detection and saving lives.
What is a Mammogram?
A mammogram is a standard method for finding breast lumps or tumors. Breast tissue is usually denser than other body tissues, so it’s harder to find a lump simply through touch. During the mammogram, low-dose X-rays pass through the breast tissue, creating an image of the inside of the breast.
All screenings at GHC-SCW are 3D mammograms. These are newer technologies that use multiple low-dose X-ray images from different angles. They create a picture that lets the Radiologist view the breast tissue in thin “slices.”
There are two types of mammograms: screening and diagnostic. Screenings are your routine checkups when you don’t have any symptoms. These routine checkups help detect any cancer cells before you can feel a lump or notice changes. Diagnostic mammograms are suggested if you have any symptoms (like a lump, nipple discharge or pain) or if something looked unusual on a screening mammogram. In these mammograms, they would take more images from different angles.
Who Should Get Mammograms and When?
The recommended age to begin regular screenings is 40, with earlier screenings recommended for high-risk individuals. Some of these high risks include genetic mutations, family history and having dense breasts. Recommendations may vary; always talk with your provider to find the best plan for you. Mammograms are typically done every 1 to 2 years, depending on age and risk.
Things to Know Before Your Screening
Mammograms are quick, safe and could save your life. Here at GHC-SCW, we aim to make the process as comfortable and painless as possible and walk you through every step.
You’ll undress in private and get a gown to wear. The technologist will place your breast on the machine. The plastic plate is lowered to compress your breast for about 10 to 15 seconds during the X-ray. This may feel uncomfortable, but the screening doesn’t last long.
For both 2D and 3D mammograms, your breast will be adjusted before the next image is taken. The standard number of images is four, but more images may be needed for a complete exam.
For a 3D mammogram, the procedure is similar to having a 2D mammogram. The main difference is that the X-ray arm sweeps in an arc over your breasts.
The entire procedure should take approximately 20 minutes.
Preparing For Your Mammogram
On the day of your mammogram, remember not to use deodorant, lotions or body creams. These sometimes cause images to be misinterpreted.
Schedule Your Screening Through GHCMyChart
Schedule your breast cancer screening today by logging into your GHCMyChartSM account. All mammograms take place at our Hatchery Hill Clinic in Fitchburg. If you receive your care at a clinic outside of GHC-SCW, your GHCMyChartSM account will prompt you to call to schedule your appointment.
GHC-SCW has made it easy to make an appointment to receive this potentially life-changing checkup. If you are eligible for a screening and receive care at a GHC-SCW primary care clinic, follow the simple steps below:
Step 1: Log in to your GHCMyChartSM account
Step 2: Select “Schedule an Appointment”
Step 3: Select “Mammogram Screening”
Step 4: Answer a few questions and select the time that works best for you
For More Information and Resources:
At GHC-SCW, we believe that caring for people means supporting them through every stage of life, including the joyful and transformative experience of welcoming a new child. That’s why we’re proud to introduce Paid Parental Leave for our employees, beginning October 1, 2025. Welcoming a new child is a time of joy and transition, and GHC-SCW’s new Paid Parental Leave program provides financial security and time away from work, allowing employees to focus on what matters most: family.
This new benefit reflects our commitment to building a workplace that values family, wellness and balance. It allows eligible employees to take up to three weeks away from work, with full pay, to bond with their child during those meaningful early weeks, whether through birth, adoption, foster care or surrogacy.
The purpose of this benefit is to support bonding and caregiving during the early stages of parenthood without financial hardship. It’s also part of our broader commitment to promoting work-life balance, diversity and inclusion and maintaining a competitive benefits package that reflects the values of our organization and the needs of our team.
Why does this matter to our members? Because when we take care of our team, they’re better able to take care of you. Paid parental leave can help reduce work-related stressors, improve well-being and create a more inclusive and supportive work environment.
By offering paid parental leave, we’re not just supporting our employees; we’re strengthening our mission to provide compassionate, high-quality care to our community. We’re excited about this step forward and what it means for our team and our members. Thank you for being part of the GHC-SCW family.