We will implement holiday hours at our clinics and Administrative Building for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day on December 24 and 25, 2025. Check out the upcoming holiday hours in the chart below:
Facility |
Wednesday, December 24 | Holiday Hours |
Thursday, December 25 | Holiday Hours |
| GHC-SCW Urgent Care Clinic at Capitol Clinic | Open 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Open 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. |
| GHC-SCW Capitol Clinic Pharmacy | Open 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Closed |
| GHC-SCW Urgent Care Lab and Imaging | Open 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Open 10 a.m. – 2 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. to 12 p.m. | Closed |
All other GHC-SCW Clinics & Administrative Offices:
|
Open 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. | Closed |
As the crisp air settles over Wisconsin and the days grow shorter, late November offers a perfect opportunity to nourish your body and boost your immune system with seasonal produce and wellness habits. Fall is not just about cozy sweaters and pumpkin spice. It’s a time to fortify your health before deep winter sets in.
Seasonal Produce in Wisconsin (Late November)
Wisconsin’s late fall harvest is rich in hearty vegetables and fruits that thrive in cooler temperatures.
Here’s what’s in season:
- Root vegetables: carrots, beets, parsnips, turnips
- Cruciferous veggies: brussels sprouts, cauliflower, cabbage
- Squashes: butternut, acorn, spaghetti, pumpkin
- Storage crops: potatoes, onions, sweet potatoes
- Fruits: apples, pears, cranberries, raspberries
These foods are not only flavorful but packed with vitamins, antioxidants and fiber, which are all key components for a strong immune system.
Why Seasonal Eating Matters
Eating seasonally supports local farmers, reduces your carbon footprint and ensures you’re getting produce at its peak nutritional value. In Wisconsin, late November’s harvest is perfect for warming meals that comfort and heal.
So, this fall, embrace the season’s bounty and “fall into immunity” with nourishing foods and mindful habits. Your body will thank you all winter long.
Healthy Habits for Fall Immunity
Stay healthy this season by practicing simple habits like washing your hands often, eating balanced meals, staying active and getting enough rest.
- Eat the rainbow: Incorporate a variety of colors from seasonal produce to get a broad spectrum of nutrients.
- Stay hydrated: Cooler weather can trick you into drinking less water. Herbal teas and broths count too!
- Get outside: Even short walks in the brisk air can boost mood and circulation.
- Sleep well: Aim for 7–9 hours to allow your body to repair and strengthen immunity.
- Support your gut: Fermented foods like sauerkraut or yogurt help maintain a healthy microbiome.
Enjoy the flavors of the late-fall harvest and keep up with simple healthy habits to stay strong throughout winter. Taking care of yourself now makes the colder months a little easier.
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?
- Eat healthy foods: Choose more fruits, veggies and whole grains.
- Move your body: Aim for 30 minutes of activity most days—walking counts!
- Maintain a healthy weight, blood pressure and cholesterol.
- Get screened: Regular checkups can catch diabetes early, when it’s easiest to manage.
Do You Already Have Diabetes?
You’re not alone! GHC-SCW’s diabetes team is here to help you with:
- Easy-to-use tools to check your blood sugar, including fingersticks and sensors you wear on your skin.
- Recommending medications that may not only control blood sugar but also protect your heart and kidneys.
- Support from dietitians, diabetes nurse specialists and clinical pharmacists who listen and help you set goals that fit your life.
- Making sure you are getting proper preventive care – eye visits, dental visits, immunizations and foot checks.
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:
- Ask about a diabetes screening at your next visit.
- Join our spring or fall diabetes boot camps. Email Quality Management at QManagement@ghcscw.com to inquire about the next session.
- Reach out if you have questions or need support. Call your GHC-SCW clinic at (608) 257-9700 or send a MyChart message to ask your primary care provider to refer you to GHC-SCW’s diabetes team.
On World Diabetes Day, let’s take small steps for a healthier future—together!
Learn more: Diabetes: What It Is, Causes, Symptoms, Treatment & Types
We will implement holiday hours at our clinics and Administrative Building for Thanksgiving on Thursday, November 27, 2025. Check out the Thanksgiving holiday hours in the chart below:
Facility |
Thursday, November 27 | Holiday Hours |
| GHC-SCW Urgent Care Clinic at Capitol Clinic | Open 9 a.m. – 5 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. – 5 p.m. |
All other GHC-SCW Clinics & Administrative Offices:
|
Closed |
As the days grow shorter and the nights longer, many of us notice a shift in our mood and energy levels. While it’s common to associate these changes with the arrival of autumn and the approach of winter, there’s more to it than just the changing seasons. Daylight Saving Time (DST) ending can play a significant role in our mental health, particularly for those susceptible to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). In this blog post, we’ll explore the connection between the end of DST and the onset of SAD, offering insights into how you can manage these “fall back blues.”
Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
Seasonal Affective Disorder, often referred to as SAD, is a type of depression that occurs at specific times of the year, typically during the fall and winter months. While it can affect anyone, SAD is more prevalent in regions with distinct seasonal changes and reduced daylight hours. Symptoms of SAD may include:
- Persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness.
- Loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed.
- Increased fatigue and difficulty sleeping.
- Changes in appetite, particularly a craving for carbs.
- Difficulty concentrating and making decisions.
- Social withdrawal and irritability.
The Role of Daylight-Saving Time
Daylight Saving Time (DST) is a practice in which the clocks are set forward by one hour during the summer months and then set back by one hour in the fall. This shift in time can disrupt our circadian rhythms, the body’s internal clock, and sleep patterns. For many individuals, especially those prone to SAD, the end of DST can be a trigger for depressive symptoms.
Decreased Daylight: With the end of DST, we experience an abrupt reduction in available daylight hours. Less exposure to natural light can contribute to feelings of lethargy and sadness.
Altered Sleep Patterns: The time change can disrupt our sleep routines, leading to sleep disturbances. Poor sleep quality and irregular sleep patterns are associated with increased depressive symptoms.
Biological Impact: The reduced exposure to sunlight can affect the production of important neurotransmitters like serotonin and melatonin, both of which play a role in mood regulation and sleep.
Managing the Fall-Back Blues
If you find yourself susceptible to the fall-back blues, there are several strategies you can employ to help mitigate the impact of DST ending on your mental health:
Light Therapy: Light therapy, or phototherapy, involves exposing yourself to a bright light that mimics natural sunlight. This can help regulate your circadian rhythm and improve mood.
Maintain a Routine: Stick to a consistent sleep schedule, even after the time change. Prioritize good sleep hygiene practices to ensure quality rest:
- Create a consistent bedtime/wakeup time where possible
- Keep a comfortable bedroom and a cooler ambient temperature
- Avoid backlit screens (phone, tablet, television) for at least 1 hour before bed
- Avoid rigorous exercise in the 1-2 hours before bed
- Avoid eating or drinking in 2-3 hours before bedtime
- Spend the last hour before bed in a dimly lit space doing a quiet and relaxing activity (reading a book)
- Consider listening to calming music or white noise
Stay Active: Regular physical activity can boost your mood and alleviate depressive symptoms. Consider exercising outdoors during daylight hours.
Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional if you’re struggling with SAD. Therapy and, in some cases, medication can be effective treatments.
Mindful Practices: Engage in mindfulness techniques, such as meditation and deep breathing exercises, to reduce stress and anxiety.
The end of Daylight-Saving Time can be a challenging period for those susceptible to Seasonal Affective Disorder. However, by understanding the connection between the two and implementing proactive strategies, you can better manage your mental health during this transition. Remember that seeking professional help is a valid and valuable option if you find yourself struggling with the fall-back blues.
National Radiologic Technology Week (NRTW) is an honorary week to recognize the essential role that radiologic technologists play in patient care and safety. NRTW is celebrated from November 2nd – 8th each year, marking the anniversary of Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen’s discovery of the X-ray on November 8th in 1895.
At Group Health Cooperative of South Central Wisconsin (GHC-SCW), our radiology team is at the heart of diagnostic excellence. From X-rays and CT scans to ultrasounds and mammograms, our technologists use cutting-edge imaging technology to help providers diagnose and treat patients with precision and compassion.
Why Radiologic Technologists Matter
Radiologic technologists are often behind the scenes, but their work is vital. They ensure imaging procedures are safe, accurate and comfortable for patients. At GHC-SCW, we use cutting-edge technology and are accredited by the American College of Radiology, offering imaging services that are designed for convenience and confidence. From helping a provider detect a fracture or assisting in early cancer diagnosis, our technologists are essential to the patient care journey. Their expertise, empathy and attention to detail make a positive impact on every patient they serve.
Meet a Few of the GHC-SCW Radiologic Technology Staff!
Kyle Booth, GHC-SCW Radiographic Technologist
What inspired you to pursue a career in radiology technology?
I worked as a graphic artist and screen printer for several years before I went to school for radiography, and though I did enjoy that field, it wasn’t giving me the sense of fulfillment that I desired in my life. I decided to go into healthcare because I wanted to be a part of something that truly helped people. I ultimately decided on radiography because the field is patient-facing, and bones are cool!
What does a typical day look like for you at GHC-SCW?
I work at the Madison College Clinic, and while my primary role is doing x-rays, I do so much more than that on a daily basis. I also work the reception desk, do lab draws, review schedules, room patients and I’ve even been known to fix the toilet when it’s acting up! I try to do anything in my power and scope to help the clinic operate as smoothly and efficiently as possible.
What’s your favorite part of working in medical imaging?
I really enjoy my field. I love expanding my knowledge and understanding of the structure of the human body. My absolute favorite thing, however, is the interactions I have with our patients. I strive to provide the best care I can for our patients, while also trying to make it as pleasant an experience as a visit to the doctor’s office can possibly be.
What is something you wish more people knew about Radiologic Technology?
On the electromagnetic spectrum, x-rays are located right next to gamma rays, so when you get an x-ray, you’re *that* close to becoming the Incredible Hulk. Not quite though.
Jana Rodriguez, Mammography Quality Control Technologist
What inspired you to pursue a career in radiology technology?
My love for the anatomy part of my Anatomy and Physiology class in college and my interest in photography at the time. I found a healthcare career that kind of “married” those two concepts together!
What does a typical day look like for you at GHC-SCW?
A typical day is one where I am at the Hatchery Hill clinic in mammography. I am the Mammography QC technologist for GHC’s Radiology department and you can most likely find me in a mammography exam with a patient or pouring over quality control reports and documents. I also perform general X-ray exams and Bone Mineral Density scans, as well as help our preceptor with Madison College’s Radiography program students.
What’s your favorite part of working in medical imaging?
My favorite part is the people. I find that in mammography especially you become close with everyone you interact with: the breast cancer survivor who comes in annually for their screening, the co-workers you become a family with and rely on and the radiologists who are our reservoir of knowledge and provide strength in tense moments. My most favorite and cherished moments are when patients say, “Thank you for everything that you do.”
What is something you wish more people knew about Radiologic Technology?
I wish more people were aware of how broad the Radiologic Technology field is. It includes patient facing specializations (general XR, MG, CT, MRI, NucMed, IR, etc.) as well as more behind the scenes paths, such as radiation safety, educator, medical imaging equipment specialist and many more careers. And that we are technologists, not technicians! The difference is that we have degrees and sit on a national board as technologists, whereas technicians have certifications which can have work limitations in the field, particularly in licensure states like Wisconsin.
Joe Michels, CT Technologist
What inspired you to pursue a career in radiology technology?
I’ve always enjoyed surrounding myself with good people from different walks of life. Healthcare was a great transition for me to come out of the military and also very similar in a lot of ways. Radiology allows me the opportunity to be a part of something much bigger than anything I could accomplish on my own.
What does a typical day look like for you at GHC-SCW?
As a CT Technologist, our schedule typically ranges from simple cases of pneumonia to various stages of cancer. We spend a huge chunk of the day hyper focused on the schedule to ensure patients get the highest quality scan without overlooking some of the finer details. Once I have a thorough understanding of the schedule, I can then focus on building relations with patients and simply enjoying the science of computed tomography.
What’s your favorite part of working in medical imaging?
Once in a great while a patient will say something along the lines of, “You guys found my cancer in time for me to fight it off.” Hearing something like that is a great example of people looking out for each other even if it is just our job.
What is something you wish more people knew about Radiologic Technology?
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.
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.
We are proud to share that Group Health Cooperative of South Central Wisconsin (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.
This achievement places GHC-SCW among the highest-rated commercial health plans in both Wisconsin and the United States.
What the NCQA Rating Means
NCQA is an independent non-profit organization that evaluates health plans across the country based on quality of care, patient satisfaction and compliance with rigorous accreditation standards. These ratings help consumers make informed decisions when choosing a health plan and recognize health organizations that go above and beyond.
Out of 556 commercial health plans rated nationally this year:
- Nationally, only 32 out of 556 health plans had a 4.5 out of 5 or higher Commercial rating.
- In Wisconsin, only four other health plans earned a 4.5 out of 5 Commercial rating.
- No health plan in Wisconsin received a 5 out of 5 Commercial rating.
A Reflection of Our Mission
This recognition reflects the collective work of our entire Cooperative. From care teams to administrative departments, every person at GHC-SCW plays an important role in ensuring that members receive safe, high-quality and compassionate care.
“I am incredibly proud of this achievement,” said Dr. Mark Huth, President and CEO of GHC-SCW. “This recognition reflects the daily commitment to excellence, compassion and constant pursuit of improvement from every team member that helps keep our Cooperative moving forward.”
National Spotlight
GHC-SCW was also featured in a national article by Becker’s Payer, which highlighted the top-rated commercial health plans in each state. This coverage brings attention to our work and further establishes GHC-SCW as a leader in high-quality, member-centered care.
Read the article here:
Becker’s Payer: The Best-Rated Commercial Health Plans in Each State
Thank You to Our Members and Staff
We want to thank our members for their trust and continued partnership. We also want to thank our staff for their hard work, innovation and commitment to our mission. Together, we continue to show that Better is Possible.
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.
NCQA Health Plan Ratings 2025: NCQA’s ratings include Commercial, Medicare and Medicaid health plans. Scores are based on a combination of clinical quality, member satisfaction and NCQA Accreditation standards.
For more information about GHC-SCW and its health plan offerings, visit ghcscw.com.
Earlier this month, Group Health Cooperative of South Central Wisconsin (GHC-SCW) implemented an exciting new GHCMyChartSM tool called MyChart Central. This feature allows members to use just one account with one username and password to manage their care across multiple participating health care systems.
This means that GHC-SCW members will have access to all of their MyChart portal accounts in one location!
What is this new tool?
MyChart Central is a new patient-focused login system that enables patients to access their own health records from multiple organizations using a single username and password. By using one centralized sign-in, patients will be able to manage their care and health records across participating organizations more quickly and easily.
MyChart Central also makes it easier for patients to communicate with providers, share their health records and update their contact information.
What does it mean for members?
For members who receive care from more than one health care organization, MyChart Central lets patients link their accounts so one single login can access them all. For example, a patient can update their address once in MyChart Central and elect to update it across all linked organizations.
This tool is fully available to all GHC-SCW members and can link providers from GHC-SCW, UW Health and SSM/Dean with more organizations to join soon. Additionally, the new single sign in function is compatible with many health apps like Fitbit, Apple Health, Google Health and others.
How to Access This Tool
To access MyChart Central, GHC-SCW members will need an existing GHCMyChartSM account.
- Visit central.mychart.org and select Sign up to get started.
- From within your GHCMyChartSM account, go to Link My Accounts and select Get Started under Connect with MyChart Central.
Once set up, you’ll be able to sign in with a single username and password whenever you visit your MyChart accounts across participating health systems. If needed, members will still be able to log in to their accounts separately after connecting to MyChart Central.
Why It Matters
“At GHC-SCW, we believe that health care is better when it’s easier for you to access”, said Annette Fox, GHC-SCW Chief Information Officer, “MyChart Central is another step toward simplifying the patient experience, making sure our members have what they need at their fingertips, whether that’s checking lab results, managing appointments or updating contact information.”