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Situation Update: February 2, 2026 at 3 pm

Thank you to the crews for helping restore water to our Sauk Trails Clinic. We are on track and planning to be open for normal business operations tomorrow, February 3, 2026. 

Temporary Closure of GHC-SCW Sauk Trails Clinic

The GHC-SCW Sauk Trails Clinic is temporarily closed due to a burst water main pipe. All staff and patients were safely evacuated.

All scheduled appointments at the GHC-SCW Sauk Trails Clinic for today (2/2/26) are cancelled and staff are working to notify patients. This includes Primary Care, Behavioral Health, GHC-SCW Foundations Intensive Outpatient Program, Chiropractic, PT/OT and Health Education. In addition, Laboratory and Pharmacy service are unavailable and may be delayed. Some teams are working to reschedule appointments to virtual visits when possible.

We apologize for the disruption and appreciate your patience as we work to ensure the safety of our space. Additional updates will be posted here as soon as they are available.

GHC-SCW Unionization Resolution

Group Health Cooperative of South Central Wisconsin (GHC-SCW), the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) and the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) have reached a mutual resolution related to the unfair labor practice claims filed last year. As a result, the SEIU has voluntarily withdrawn the unfair labor practice claims and its petition with the NLRB to form a union at GHC-SCW. We value the feedback shared by our member-owners throughout this process. As we lean into our 50th year, we are focused on moving forward together and continuing to support our staff, serve our members and strengthen our commitment to the communities we serve. 

 

We will implement holiday hours at our clinics and Administrative Building for New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day on December 31 and January 1, 2025. Check out the upcoming holiday hours in the chart below:

 

Facility

Wednesday, December 31 | Holiday Hours

Thursday, January 1 | Holiday Hours
GHC-SCW Urgent Care Clinic at Capitol Clinic Open 8 a.m. – 9 p.m. Open 9 a.m. – 9 p.m.
GHC-SCW Capitol Clinic Pharmacy Open 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Open 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
GHC-SCW Urgent Care Lab and Imaging Open 8 a.m. – 9 p.m. Open 9 a.m. – 9 p.m.
GHC-SCW PT/OT at Capital Clinic Open 7:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. Closed
GHC-SCW PT/OT at East Clinic Open 7:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. Closed
Princeton Club West PT/OT Clinic Open 6:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. Closed
All other GHC-SCW Clinics & Administrative Offices:

  • Olin Clinic
  • East Clinic
  • Hatchery Hill Clinic and Pharmacy
  • Madison College Community Clinic
  • Sauk Trails Clinic and Pharmacy
  • Administrative Building
 Open 8:00 a.m. – 12 p.m. Closed

 

Wednesday, September 24 Update:

Based on Governor Tony Evers’ statewide Executive Order, the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) issued a statewide standing medical order that allows those over 6 months old who want to receive the COVID-19 vaccine to get it at pharmacies across the state without a prescription. This means members can receive the vaccine at Hy-Vee and Costco, covered by GHC-SCW. The Moderna COVID vaccine is now available at all GHC-SCW clinics.* Please refrain from scheduling at the Madison College Clinic unless it is your Primary Clinic.

*The vaccine will be given while supplies last and is never guaranteed due to limited supply and demand.

Eligibility:

Anyone 6 months or older may receive the COVID-19 vaccine, per Gov. Evers Executive Order. (No one has to be over 65 years or older, or immunocompromised, to receive this vaccine, like in the past.)

If you are 65 or older, the CDC recommends you receive the COVID-19 vaccine as part of your routine care. You do not need to have a special conversation with your care team. If you are due for your COVID-19 vaccine, you can get it when supply is available!

If you are under 65, the CDC states that COVID-19 vaccination is based on “shared decision-making.” This means the vaccine is available to you, provided you have had a conversation with your primary care provider team to confirm the vaccine is correct for you.

Coverage: GHC-SCW will cover this year’s COVID-19 vaccine.

GHC-SCW Clinics:

Pharmacies: Pharmacies operate under different regulations than health systems, which has allowed some to begin receiving vaccine shipments earlier. For example, Walgreens has already started offering the COVID-19 vaccine; however, GHC-SCW does not contract with Walgreens for vaccine administration. Our contracted pharmacies (Hy-Vee and Costco) are now offering the vaccine; it will be covered under your GHC-SCW benefits and no prescription is needed.

Previous COVID-19 vaccine: Last year’s COVID-19 vaccine is no longer being offered at our GHC-SCW clinics or at our partner pharmacies. It does not match currently circulating virus strains and receiving it now could delay your eligibility for the updated vaccine.

We are committed to keeping you informed and will share updates on this page and in upcoming member communications as soon as new information is available.

One click could save a life. Group Health Cooperative of South Central Wisconsin (GHC-SCW) is helping save and heal lives by being the first health care organization in the state to offer organ donation registration directly within its patient portal, GHCMyChart. This new feature, launching this month, makes it easier than ever for members to register as organ donors – a decision that could save lives.

“Organ donation is one of the most profound acts of generosity a person can do to make a lasting impact,” said Dr. Sally Frings, Chief Nursing Officer at GHC-SCW. “We are proud to lead the way in Wisconsin by embedding this life-saving choice into a tool our members already use and trust.”

The feature was developed in collaboration with Donate Life America and Epic, GHC-SCW’s electronic health record provider. It allows members to securely register with the National Donate Life Registry while managing their health online and reflects a shared commitment to removing barriers to life-saving decisions.
When members or patients log into GHCMyChart, they will see a prompt to opt in to organ donation. This feature eliminates the need to visit a separate website or wait in line at the DMV. Those who register and later change their minds can easily update their donor status at any time through the linked registry site in their settings.

“By integrating the donor registration opportunity directly into GHCMyChart, we are reaching people where they already manage their health. This creates a seamless, trusted pathway for lifesaving generosity. Together, we are empowering millions to make a difference and help save and heal lives,” said David Fleming, President & CEO, Donate Life America.

“This tool is about accessibility and empowerment,” said Dr. Chris Kastman, Chief Medical Officer at GHC-SCW. “We’re helping patients align their health care values with their medical records in a way that’s simple, secure and meaningful.”

According to Donate Life Wisconsin, more than 1,400 people in Wisconsin are currently waiting for a life-saving organ transplant. Additionally, a new name is added to the national transplant waiting list every eight minutes. Yet, despite broad support for organ donation, many eligible donors never register due to lack
of access or awareness. By integrating donor registration into the electronic medical record, GHC-SCW and Epic aim to remove barriers and encourage more Wisconsinites to make informed and impactful choices.

“We’re proud to support GHC-SCW in making organ donor registration simpler and more accessible,” said Seth Howard, EVP of Research and Development at Epic. “This makes it easier for patients who choose to become donors to take that step—one that could one day save a life.”

For more information about organ donation registration in GHCMyChart or to learn more about GHC-SCW, visit www.ghcscw.com.

About GHC-SCW

Proudly serving over 70,000 members, Group Health Cooperative of South Central Wisconsin (GHC-SCW) is Wisconsin’s first, and Dane County’s only, member-owned, nonprofit health care cooperative. This ensures that 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 nearly 50 years, GHC-SCW is the first health plan in Wisconsin to offer patients a money-back guarantee. GHC-SCW is perennially a national leader in quality. In 2024, GHC-SCW achieved a 4.5 out of 5 rating among private commercial plans according to the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) report cards.

About NCQA

National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) is a private, non-profit organization dedicated to improving health care quality. NCQA accredits and certifies a wide range of health care organizations and recognizes clinicians in key clinical areas. NCQA’s HEDIS® is the most widely used performance measurement tool in health care. NCQA’s Web site (ncqa.org) contains information to help consumers, employers and others make more informed health care choices.

About Donate Life America

Donate Life America (DLA) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization educating, inspiring and activating the public to say yes to registering their decision to be an organ, eye and tissue donor.

 

May is Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and Hypermobility Spectrum Disorder (HSD) Awareness Month, a time dedicated to increasing understanding and awareness of a group of complex, often misunderstood connective tissue disorders. These medical conditions affect the body’s connective tissue, which holds your skin, joints and other organs together. People with EDS or HSD may look healthy on the outside, but they often deal with pain, injuries and fatigue every day. 

 

What is Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS)? 

EDS is a group of genetic disorders that affect how the body makes connective tissue. Connective tissue is found throughout the body, providing support, protection and structure to other body parts. The Ehlers-Danlos syndromes are caused by genetic changes that prevent connective tissue from functioning correctly. There are 13 different types of EDS, but the most common is hypermobile EDS (hEDS). 

Each type of EDS has its own set of features and distinct diagnostic criteria. Some symptoms are common across all types of EDS. 

Common symptoms include: 

 

What Are Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders (HSD)? 

HSD is similar to hypermobile EDS (hEDS). It also causes joint pain and hypermobility, but it doesn’t meet all the medical rules for EDS. People with HSD often have the same symptoms and struggles as those with EDS. Joint hypermobility is seen in all types of HSD.  

Joint hypermobility alone is not always a problem. The problem occurs when hypermobile joints are unstable or place too much strain on other parts of the body. Joint instability occurs when a joint’s bones aren’t held securely, leading to joint subluxations, dislocations, sprains and other injuries.  Hypermobility also affects a person’s muscles because the muscles are required to “hold on” to the joints, which puts extra strain on them and causes muscle fatigue more quickly. 

How are EDS and HSD managed? 

There are no disease-specific treatments for any type of EDS or HSD, so they are managed by addressing each person’s symptoms. There are lifestyle modifications that can be made that will help, such as pacing your activity. Each person’s care plan should address their individual needs.  There are many conditions associated with hEDS and HDS. These comorbidities can include autonomic dysfunction, digestive issues, chronic pain, mental health conditions and many more. 

 

Why Awareness is Important 

Many people with EDS or HSD wait years for a correct diagnosis. Their symptoms are often overlooked or misdiagnosed as anxiety, poor posture or growing pains. Without proper care and understanding, these conditions can get worse and impact both physical and mental health.  

 

Resources to Learn More About EDS & HSD

 

We will implement holiday hours at our clinics and Administrative Building in observance of Memorial Day on Monday, May 26, 2025. Check out the upcoming holiday hours in the chart below:

 

Facility

Monday, May 26 | Holiday Hours
GHC-SCW Urgent Care Clinic at Capitol Clinic Open 9 a.m. – 9 p.m.
GHC-SCW Capitol Clinic Pharmacy Open 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
GHC-SCW Urgent Care Lab and Imaging Open 9 a.m. – 9 p.m.
All other GHC-SCW Clinics & Administrative Offices:

  • Olin Clinic
  • Capitol Clinic (Primary Care)
  • East Clinic
  • Hatchery Hill Clinic and Pharmacy
  • Madison College Community Clinic
  • Princeton Club West PT/OT Clinic
  • Sauk Trails Clinic and Pharmacy
  • Administrative Building
 Closed

 

In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of daily life. But often, this comes at the expense of neglecting our emotional well-being. Caring for your mental health is as crucial as looking after your physical health. We’ll explore the importance of nurturing your emotional well-being and provide tips to help prioritize your mental health.

 

The Importance of Emotional Well-Being

Emotional well-being refers to your ability to understand, manage and express your emotions constructively. It is vital to your overall health and affects various aspects of your life, including relationships, work and physical health. Here’s why nurturing your emotional well-being is essential:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tips for Nurturing Your Emotional Well-Being

Now that we understand the importance of emotional well-being let’s explore some practical steps to nurture it:

Prioritize Self-Care

Self-care doesn’t necessarily mean bubble baths and expensive trips to the spa. (They are nice if they do help you though!) Dedicate time to self-care activities that make you happy, whether it’s reading, practicing mindfulness or pursuing a hobby.

Stay Connected

Maintain social connections with friends and loved ones. A strong support system can provide comfort during tough times. Schedule a coffee date with a friend or visit a relative you haven’t seen.

Exercise Regularly

Physical activity releases endorphins, boosting your mood and reducing stress. Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise most days. You don’t necessarily need to do a grueling fitness class every day. Consistency is key in physical activity, so opt for activities you enjoy, whether it’s riding a bike, swimming or playing pickleball.

Seek Professional Help

If you’re struggling with your mental health, don’t hesitate to seek help from a behavioral health professional. They can provide valuable guidance and support. They can also refer you to helpful resources and programs, like our Foundations Intensive Outpatient Program. Substance use disorders can also hurt mental health. GHC-SCW Primary Care Providers offer compassionate care for substance use disorders, including specialized medication management and a supportive path to recovery.

There are several ways that GHC-SCW members can connect to outpatient behavioral health, psychiatry and therapy at GHC-SCW.  Visit our Behavioral Health page for more information.

Practice Mindfulness

Mindfulness techniques, such as meditation and deep breathing, can help you stay present and manage stress. Looking for some simple exercises to get started? Check out the Spinal Breathing Exercise on our YouTube channel. 

Set Realistic Goals

While it’s tempting to do everything, tackling your entire to-do list all at once can be overwhelming. Break your goals into smaller, achievable steps. Make sure to celebrate your successes along the way, too!

Limit Screen Time

Screen time is unavoidable in many careers. For many, computers and smartphones have become essential tools for their jobs. However, excessive screen time, especially on social media, can negatively impact mental health. During your downtime, make sure to set boundaries for healthy device use. It can be as simple as turning off notifications, setting a timer to limit usage and keeping your phone or laptop out of the bedroom.

Get Quality Sleep

Prioritize sleep, aiming for seven to nine hours per night. Quality rest is essential for emotional well-being and vital to your physical health. To create a sleep-friendly space, keep your bedroom cool, dark and quiet with comfortable bedding.

Express Gratitude

Regularly express gratitude for the positive aspects of your life. This practice can foster a more positive outlook. One way to do this is to keep a daily gratitude journal. You could start your day positively by writing down the things for which you are grateful. Another way to express gratitude is by taking time before bed to note events that brightened your day. Some events you could note in your journal may include witnessing a random act of kindness or seeing your favorite flowers on your daily walk.

Educate Yourself

Learning about mental health can be powerful in understanding these conditions. You can also be part of the movement to reduce stigma and support others who are struggling with these conditions. Our online health conditions pages provide helpful information and resources on common mental health challenges, such as anxiety and depression.

 

Nurturing your emotional well-being is valuable to your overall health and happiness. Incorporate these tips into your daily life to prioritize your mental health and contribute to a more emotionally fulfilling existence. Remember, seeking help when needed is a sign of strength, and there’s support available for everyone. Your mental health matters, so make it a priority.

The GHC-SCW Pre-Professional Medical Diversity Scholarship seeks to award financial grants to under-represented students. Specifically, we are offering a scholarship for students who identify as Black, Indigenous, Asian American, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander and/or Hispanic/Latinx who are currently enrolled in medical school (including residency), physician assistant and nurse practitioner programs in Wisconsin. The scholarship awards $5,000 grants to each of three selected scholars. The funds will be distributed in Fall of 2025. Scholars will be selected through an online application process due by July 15, 2025. In addition to the monetary scholarship, each scholar chosen will be awarded the opportunity for an on-site shadowing experience at GHC-SCW during the 2025 fall semester.

Eligibility:

• Pre-professional students or residents in a Wisconsin-based health science degree program (MD, DO, PA, and NP) or residency
• Identifies as Black, Indigenous, Asian American, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander and/or Hispanic/Latinx
• Strong professional interest in a primary care career in Wisconsin

Selection Criteria:

Scholars will be chosen based on demonstrated interest in a primary care field in Wisconsin.

Deadline to Apply:

July 15th, 2025

Timeline:

Distribution of scholarship in October 2025 with an opportunity for a shadowing experience at GHC-SCW during the fall of 2025.

Apply Here

The Dangers of High Blood Pressure 

Doctors call high blood pressure “the silent killer” because it can cause serious health problems without showing any symptoms.

 

What is Blood Pressure? 

Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of our blood vessels as it travels through our body. It’s like the pressure of water flowing through a garden hose. When doctors measure blood pressure, they look at two numbers: the systolic (when the heart beats) and the diastolic (when the heart rests between beats). 

 

Why is High Blood Pressure Dangerous? 

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, means the pressure in your blood vessels is too high. This high pressure can damage your blood vessels and make your heart work harder than it should. Over time, high blood pressure can lead to health problems, such as: 

 

How Can We Keep Our Blood Pressure Healthy? 

There are several ways to help keep our blood pressure at a healthy level: 

How to enter your blood pressure in MyChart: 

  1. Log into GHC MyChart. 
  2. Click on the “Menu” button in the upper left corner. 
  3. Select “Track My Health” found under “My Record” 
  4. Under active flowsheets, click “MyChart Fitness Tracking” or “Patient-Entered Blood Pressure.” 
  5. Click “Add New Data.” 
  6. Fill out the date, time, systolic and diastolic blood pressure readings, pulse, and save.

 

Resources