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National Substance Abuse Prevention Month, observed each October, recognizes the importance of early intervention, education and community support in reducing substance abuse and its effects. Prevention efforts focus on creating conditions that help people stay healthy and supported throughout their lives. This approach can include building healthy relationships, supporting mental well-being and creating environments where people can thrive. 

By learning about the challenges facing our communities and the resources available, each of us can play a role in prevention and recovery. 

 

Why Prevention Matters 

Substance abuse continue to affect communities across Wisconsin. According to the 2025 Wisconsin Mental Health and Substance Abuse Needs Assessment Report, Wisconsin’s rates of substance use disorders are slightly higher than the national average, and alcohol use remains significantly higher than the national average (Wisconsin Department of Health Services). The report also found that opioid-related deaths increased between 2020 and 2023 across all age groups and ethnicities in Wisconsin. 

Prevention efforts can help reduce these risks by promoting healthy coping skills, strengthening support systems and encouraging early intervention. By creating opportunities for education, connection and open conversations, communities can help people make informed choices and seek support when needed. 

 

Breaking the Stigma Through Education 

One of the biggest barriers to preventing and treating substance use disorders is stigma. Misconceptions and judgments can make it harder for people to seek help, talk openly about their struggles or access the care they need. Substance use disorders are medical conditions, not personal failures, and anyone can be affected regardless of age, background or life circumstances. 

Education plays a critical role in reducing stigma and supporting prevention. By learning about the factors that contribute to substance use, recognizing warning signs and understanding available treatment options, people can make more informed decisions and better support those who may be struggling.

Explore these resources to learn more about substance use prevention: 

 

Support Through GHC-SCW Pathways to Recovery 

For individuals experiencing substance use challenges, recovery is possible with the right support. GHC-SCW’s Pathways to Recovery outpatient clinic provides personalized, whole-person care for adults affected by alcohol, opioid and other substance use disorders. Services include assessments, individual and group counseling, harm reduction services and coordination with primary care, behavioral health and community resources. 

Using a low-barrier, harm reduction approach, the Pathways team meets people where they are and works with them to develop a plan that reflects their individual needs and recovery goals. Harm reduction is a set of practical strategies and ideas aimed at reducing negative consequences associated with drug use. It is an evidence-based approach that helps reduce the health, social and safety risks associated with substance use while supporting improved well-being and connection to care.

In addition to the Pathways program, GHC-SCW Primary Care Providers  (PCPs) can help address substance use concerns through compassionate and personalized care. Whether someone is actively using substances, considering a change or in recovery, PCPs can provide support and ongoing care, discuss treatment options and connect patients with resources. 

 

Reminders and Additional Resources 

National Substance Abuse Prevention Month serves as a reminder that prevention, treatment and recovery are community efforts. Whether through education, supportive conversations or access to care, everyone can play a role in reducing stigma and supporting healthier futures. Recovery is not a journey anyone has to take alone, and help is available every step of the way. 

GHC-SCW is excited to offer Regulating Together™, a new service within our autism spectrum disorder (ASD) Social Emotional Program that is designed to help children diagnosed with autism build emotional regulation skills and strengthen coping strategies. 

Developed by Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Regulating Together is a group intervention that helps children and teens experiencing emotion dysregulation build skills for managing strong emotions. GHC-SCW is a certified Regulating Together provider. This program is intended for children who would benefit from a more intensive, skills-focused approach to building emotional regulation strategies. The program combines proven mental health strategies and evidence-based practices from autism care to help children better understand, manage and respond to their emotions in everyday situations. 

A key part of the program is caregiver involvement. Parents and caregivers participate alongside their child to learn practical tools and strategies that can be used at home, supporting continued growth and success beyond each session. 

Regulating Together is provided in the participant’s home and includes two 90-minute sessions each week. Programming length typically ranges from 5 to 10 weeks depending on the needs of the child. A group option will also be available in the future.  

Who Can Participate? 

Children must meet the following requirements to participate in Regulating Together: 

How Can I Enroll?  

A referral is required to participate in Regulating Together. If you are interested in learning whether this program may be a good fit for your child, please talk with your child’s Primary Care Provider or behavioral health prescriber. 

For questions or more information, please contact our Autism Services team at (608) 441-3290. 

This program accepts GHC-SCW, Quartz and the Alliance Commercial Insurance Plans. 

Pathways to Recovery provides respectful, personalized outpatient care for adults 18 and older seeking support with alcohol, opioids or other substances. Wherever you are on your journey, our team will work with you to create a care plan that supports your needs and goals.

Through this program, patients can expect care that is tailored to their needs and goals. Individualized approaches can include evaluations for providers to better understand your needs, individual and group counseling, medications that can support recovery, practical harm reduction education, withdrawal management and strong relationships with your care team, specialists and community resources whenever you need them.

The most important part of the recovery process is taking the first step.

Call the GHC-SCW Pathways to Recovery team directly at (608) 441-3320 to learn more about the program. In that first call, a provider will ask questions to learn more about your needs and help schedule your first appointment; no referral from a Primary Care Provider is needed.

At the first appointment, patients can expect to meet with their care team and go through an assessment, health review and treatment recommendations. Virtual or in-person visits are available, depending on the patient’s comfort level.

You are not alone in this process and have a team to support you every step of the way. Your care team may include addiction medicine physicians, licensed substance use counselors, registered nurses, clinical support staff and consulting behavioral health specialists, depending on what type of support you need.

“We know that asking for help can be one of the hardest steps, but recovery is possible with the right support. Pathways to Recovery was created to make treatment more accessible and to ensure that every person who comes through our doors is met with compassion, respect and hope, as well as a team dedicated to helping them succeed,” said Emily Stout, LCSW, SCAC, therapist in the Pathways Program.

The Pathways to Recovery Program provides only outpatient care. If you need a higher level of treatment, our team can help connect you with appropriate services outside of GHC-SCW.

This program is located at the GHC-SCW Capitol Clinic where onsite lab and pharmacy services are available. They are open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Take the first step to recovery today by calling the Pathways Program team at (608) 441-3320.

Learn More

Between work, family, appointments and everything else on your schedule, picking up a prescription can feel like one more errand to fit into an already busy day. GHC-SCW Mail Order Pharmacy makes medication refills easier by bringing eligible prescriptions directly to your home…and with no additional delivery fee!

Your prescriptions are filled locally by the GHC-SCW pharmacy team at our Sauk Trails Clinic Pharmacy in Madison. That means you receive the convenience of mail delivery while continuing to rely on knowledgeable local pharmacists who are part of your GHC-SCW care team.

Local Pharmacy Care, Without the Extra Trip

Mail delivery can be especially helpful for medications you take regularly. Instead of planning another drive to the pharmacy, waiting in line or adjusting your schedule around pickup hours, you can request eligible prescriptions through your GHCMyChart account and have them mailed to your door.

GHC-SCW pharmacies can also provide a 90-day supply of many medications, helping reduce the number of refills and pharmacy trips you need throughout the year.

The service is designed to offer convenience without sacrificing personalized support. GHC-SCW pharmacists remain available to answer questions, verify dosages, review potential drug interactions and help identify less expensive alternatives when appropriate.

More Time for What Matters

Having prescriptions delivered can make it easier to stay on track with your medications while freeing up time for the people and activities that matter most. Because delivery is free for eligible prescriptions, you can enjoy the convenience of mail order while continuing to support and receive care from your local GHC-SCW pharmacy team.

Get Started with GHC-SCW Mail Order Pharmacy Service

To get started, log in to your GHCMyChart account to request an eligible mailed prescription and submit payment online.

You can also call our Sauk Trails Pharmacy team at (608) 831-1773 and request your prescription t0o be transferred to mail order.

 

Summer heat calls for nutritious foods to fuel your outdoor activities. 

With warmer temperatures and time spent in the sun, it’s important to focus on the food that fuels our bodies to help us stay cool, hydrated and energized. Foods high in nutrients, water and protein protect your immune system, keep you hydrated and support your energy levels as you’re spending more time outside. Making small changes to your meals and snacks can help you stay healthy all summer long. 

Read the tips below for a healthy, energy-filled summer. 

Drink lots of water.

If you are active outdoors or sitting in the sun, it’s important to stay hydrated. You lose more water through sweat, so be sure to drink water before, during and after outside activities. Aim to drink 8 to 10 glasses per day if you are active. If you begin feeling thirsty, tired or dizzy, it may be a sign that you need more fluids.  

Add electrolytes to your water. Electrolytes, are minerals in your body and supplements you can take that carry an electrical charge through your body that help maintain fluid balance in the body, nerve function and muscle contraction. Adding electrolyte packets to water or adding beverages such as Gatorade helps avoid muscle cramps, fatigue and dehydration. 

Add hydrating fruits and vegetables to your meals.

Simple fruits and veggies rich in water and nutrients, such as watermelon, strawberries, cucumbers and tomatoes, can make meals extra hydrating. Add them as a side dish or healthy snack or find recipes that include them in the main dish. 

Eat lighter, cooler meals.

Avoid hot meals in the summer, especially when you spend a lot of time out in the heat. Avoid meals that might make you sluggish, such as deep-fried, greasy or super sugary foods. Instead, add in “lighter” dishes such as salads, sandwiches, lean, grilled protein and smoothies. These foods can help you feel energized without weighing you down during hot summer days. 

Avoid dehydration triggers.

Food and beverages such as sugary drinks, energy drinks, high-sodium foods and overly spicy food can make you dehydrated. Try to limit these when spending a lot of time outdoors. If you choose to have these on hot days, be sure to balance them with plenty of water throughout the day. 

Plan ahead.

If you’re spending all day outside doing activities such as hiking, biking, swimming or spending time in the sun, be sure to pack healthy snacks such as trail mix, fruits and vegetables, yogurt or granola bars. Be sure to bring water wherever you go. 

Eating well and staying hydrated can help you safely enjoy everything summer has to offer. Instead of changing your plans because of the heat, add these healthy habits into your day to help you stay cool, energized and hydrated.

May is Maternal Health Month, a time to raise awareness about maternal health and highlight the importance of care and support before, during and after pregnancy. It also provides an opportunity to learn about how hormonal changes affect the body during pregnancy and beyond, which is an important part of maternal health. 

Women’s hormones are constantly changing throughout life, shaping both physical and emotional health at every stage. From puberty and pregnancy to perimenopause and beyond, these hormonal shifts play a key role in how women feel, function and care for their bodies. Understanding how hormones change during and after pregnancy can help women better recognize symptoms, support their health and know when to seek care. 

Hormonal Changes During Pregnancy 

A hormone is a “chemical messenger” produced by glands or tissues in the body that communicates signals through the bloodstream to cells or organs, telling them what actions to perform and when. Hormones are important for controlling metabolism, growth, development, mood and reproduction.   

Pregnancy affects everyone differently. While some people experience many symptoms, others may notice very few. These differences are primarily driven by hormonal changes. Several key hormones play essential roles during pregnancy, supporting both the developing baby and the body’s changes. 

How These Hormones Affect Bodies During Pregnancy 

As hormones shift and cause changes within the body, they can also create noticeable symptoms. Pregnancy affects everyone differently. Some people experience many symptoms for an extended amount of time, while others notice very few. 

Many hormone-related symptoms are a normal part of pregnancy and do not usually require medical attention unless they become severe, persistent or interfere with daily activities. Typical symptoms include: 

However, if symptoms are severe, sudden, worsening or causing significant discomfort, contact your health care provider. The following symptoms should be reported as soon as possible: 

If you are unsure whether symptoms are typical, reach out to your provider. Asking questions early can provide reassurance and help ensure both you and your baby stay healthy. Providers may also recommend supplements or medications to help manage symptoms. 

Mental Health Changes and Available Support  

Hormonal changes during people’s lives from puberty to pregnancy, after childbirth and into menopause can all affect mental health. During these natural life changes, many people can feel isolated or emotionally drained. Prioritizing mental health and seeking help when needed are extremely important during pregnancy and perimenopause. A few of these mental health changes or symptoms include feeling sad, feeling a mood or energy shift, trouble sleeping or sleeping too much, anger or irritability, headaches, body aches, stomach problems and more. (Learn more at https://womenshealth.gov). Just as women’s bodies and timelines differ, so do the challenges each person faces. 

There are many online and local resources available in the Madison and Dane County area to support people through life stages when hormonal changes affect both physical and mental well-being. If you have symptoms or concerns, talking with your primary care provider can help you explore options that are right for you. If you need additional mental health support, confidential help is available through the confidential resources listed below. 

Along with seeking a support system, there are daily tips women can follow to help their mental health throughout their everyday lives. 

Remember, building these habits and achieving these goals will take time, and there may be setbacks along the way. Lean on a friend or loved one to help with motivation.  

 

Hormonal changes are a regular part of life that every woman will go through, and each pregnant person’s experience is unique. There is no right or wrong experience, and it’s okay not to know what is happening to your body as the changes begin. Learning and understanding these changes can help you feel more prepared and empowered as your body undergoes them. Always remember that health care providers are there to support you through every stage of life. 

 

If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, be sure to schedule an appointment with your Primary Care Provider or an OB Provider as soon as you find out to confirm the pregnancy. Your provider will schedule additional appointments throughout the pregnancy and arrange a follow-up appointment within three months after delivery. These appointments are important for monitoring both your baby’s growth and development and your own health during and after your pregnancy.

Resources  

Endorphins: What They Are and How to Boost Them 

Women’s Mental Health Matters  

Hormones During Pregnancy | Johns Hopkins Medicine 

OASH | Office on Women’s Health 

GHC-SCW Becomes First Health Care Organization in the World to Adopt Epic’s AI Charting Tool

Groundbreaking innovation allows providers to focus fully on patients, reduces burnout and transforms the care experience.

GHC-SCW has become the first health care organization in the world to adopt Epic’s new Artificial Intelligence (AI) Charting tool into their medical practice, marking a major innovation milestone in the future of patient-centered care and provider well-being.

Epic AI Charting uses secure, health care-specific artificial intelligence to draft visit notes as it listens to in-person or virtual visits, with patient consent. By reducing the need for providers to balance listening, typing and documentation during appointments, the tool allows clinicians to be fully present with patients while ensuring timely, accurate medical records.

“This technology fundamentally changes the experience of a health care visit,” said Dr. Chris Kastman, Chief Medical Officer at GHC-SCW. “AI Charting supports our providers behind the scenes so they can focus on what matters most, including listening to their patients, building trust and making shared decisions together. It is a powerful example of how technology should enhance, not replace, human connection in health care.”

GHC-SCW providers who were among the first in the world to integrate the use of Epic AI Charting into their practice report meaningful improvements in both patient care and their own well-being.

“It’s changed my life and made note-writing so much easier,” said Dr. Kate Ledford, GHC-SCW Provider and Associate Medical Director of Informatics and Population Health. “It’s saving me time, which is great, but it’s also saving my sanity and allowing me to give more attention directly to my patients.”

“Beyond saving time and making note-writing easier, this tool has truly enhanced my experience of caring for patients. It has brought me back to why I went to medical school in the first place — to connect face-to-face with patients, not with a computer,” said Dr. Matthew Swedlund, Senior Medical Director at GHC-SCW.

According to Epic’s early impact data, clinicians using AI Charting reported:

“We worked side-by-side with clinicians at GHC-SCW to develop AI Charting,” said Corey Miller, Vice President of Research and Development at Epic. “When they say it’s improving their patient visits and working lives, it’s a reminder of why we at Epic do what we do. Together, we’ve built something that’s already making a real difference — and this is just the beginning.”

GHC-SCW’s role as an early innovator builds on a long history of leadership in health information technology. The organization was also the first health care organization in Wisconsin to implement the EpicCare electronic medical record in 2002 and MyChart in 2003, helping shape how patients and providers interact with digital health tools.

“Provider burnout has been a growing challenge across health care for years,” said Dr. Mark Huth, President and Chief Executive Officer at GHC-SCW. “Epic AI Charting directly addresses that challenge while improving the patient experience. We are honored to partner with Epic on something so innovative and proud to once again help lead the industry forward.”

About Epic AI Charting

Epic AI Charting is a HIPAA-compliant clinical documentation tool used only with patient consent. Visit recordings are stored securely for a limited time and are not used to train AI models. Providers remain fully responsible for reviewing, editing and finalizing all medical documentation.

November 14 is World Diabetes Day, a time to come together and learn how we can prevent and manage diabetes as a community. Diabetes is common, but with the right support, you can take charge of your health and live well.

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes means your body has trouble managing blood sugar. If not controlled, it can lead to problems with your heart, kidneys, eyes and nerves. The good news? Many complications can be prevented with healthy habits and regular checkups.

How Can You Lower Your Risk?

Do You Already Have Diabetes?

You’re not alone! GHC-SCW’s diabetes team is here to help you with:

Let’s Work Together!

Managing diabetes is a team effort. GHC-SCW’s diabetes team will help you make a plan that works for you, answer your questions and celebrate your progress one step at a time.

Take Action Today:

On World Diabetes Day, let’s take small steps for a healthier future—together!

 

Learn more: Diabetes: What It Is, Causes, Symptoms, Treatment & Types

What is Tdap?

The Tdap vaccine protects against three serious diseases:

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:

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.

 

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 GHCMyChart 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 GHCMyChart 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 GHCMyChart 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: