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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. 

Through the summer of 2026, GHC-SCW members, staff and the community helped us celebrate 50 years of member-centered care through the Legacy Trail Adventure. This outdoor scavenger hunt featured rock-like cache containers called Legacy Trail caches. Each one represented a year that GHC-SCW served our members from 1976-2026. This adventure took participants to various Dane County parks, community spaces and well-known local businesses. Along the way, they learned about GHC-SCW’s history and important milestones throughout the years.  

As the Legacy Trail Adventure came to a close on September 29, we want to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who participated. 

Giving Back 

The Legacy Trail was about more than adventure and exploration. It was also an opportunity to give back and make connections in the community. As part of the experience, participants voted to help direct more than $25,000 in donations from GHC-SCW to local non-profit organizations making a difference in our communities. 

Participants’ votes resulted in donations to 31 non-profit organizations in the Madison area. The five organizations that received the most votes and will be receiving the largest total donations are: 

Read below to see what other organizations are being supported through the Legacy Trail Adventure. Thank you to all who voted; every single vote made a difference.  

Prizes 

Every Legacy Trail participant had a chance to win various levels of prizes as they found caches.  

Cache Prizes: Each time a player found and registered a new Legacy cache, they were automatically entered into that cache’s individual $100 gift card prize drawing. Players were entered into every cache drawing they unlocked, increasing their chances to win.   

Grand Prize Drawing: Additionally, each time a player found and registered a new Legacy cache, they received an entry into the $1,000 grand prize drawing. 5,322 total cache finds were registered and entered into the grand prize drawing pool. One lucky winner was selected at the conclusion of the Legacy Trail.  Congratulations to Sarah H., our $1,000 Grand Prize winner! 

Cache Rewards: If a player found and registered 5, 25 or 50 Legacy caches, they earned the corresponding milestone reward: a leather carabiner for 5 caches, a tote bag for 25 caches and an insulated water bottle for 50 caches. Together, participants earned 328 milestone rewards throughout the Legacy Trail campaign! 

Weekly Prize Drawings: Throughout the Legacy Trail adventure, participants also had the chance to win weekly prize bundles, including picnic, outdoor hiking, dessert-making bundles and more! The weekly drawing entries were awarded based on milestones of 5, 10, 25, 40 and 50 registered cache finds. Each week, one winner was randomly selected to receive a prize valued at $100. 

Together, participants explored Dane County, discovered local history and landmarks and helped celebrate GHC-SCW’s 50th anniversary through adventure, wellness and community.  

Legacy Trail Impact by the Numbers 

 

We appreciate every participant, GHC-SCW member, staff member and community partner who helped bring this adventure to life. Thank you for taking the time to explore Dane County, discover local history and landmarks and support nonprofit organizations throughout the challenge. It was wonderful to see so many people come together to celebrate GHC-SCW’s 50th anniversary through adventure, wellness and community. Thank you for being part of this special milestone and helping make the Legacy Trail a memorable experience for everyone involved.

 

As the days get shorter and temperatures cool, respiratory viruses such as flu, COVID-19 and RSV become more common. One of the best ways to protect yourself, your family and our community is to stay up to date on recommended seasonal vaccines.

Vaccines are a safe, effective tool that help reduce your risk of severe illness, hospitalizations and complications from respiratory diseases. In this article, we’ll discuss the importance of annual vaccinations and where you can receive seasonal vaccines this fall. 

 

Why Are Seasonal Vaccines Important? 

Respiratory viruses circulate every year, but the timing and severity of each season can vary. While many people recover from illnesses like influenza (flu), COVID-19 or RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) without complications, these infections can become serious health concerns. This is especially true for older adults, infants, pregnant people and those with certain chronic health conditions. 

Vaccinations help your immune system recognize and fight viruses more effectively. In addition to protecting you, vaccinations can help reduce the spread of illness within your household, school, workplace and broader community. 

 

Why Is the Flu Vaccine Recommended Every Year? 

Influenza, or the flu virus, changes over time, so an annual flu vaccine is generally recommended for everyone ages 6 months and older. We recommend getting vaccinated each fall, before flu activity increases, to help prevent the spread of the virus. 

Flu symptoms can include fever, chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headaches and fatigue, all of which can significantly impact your daily life. If you have questions about the timing of the vaccine or your eligibility, your health care provider can help determine which vaccines are recommended for you. 

 

What About COVID-19 and RSV Vaccines? 

The flu vaccine isn’t the only vaccine that can help protect against respiratory illness. COVID-19 and RSV continue to infect people each year, especially during respiratory virus season, which begins in the fall and typically peaks during the winter months. 

COVID-19 continues to circulate year-round, with activity often increasing during respiratory virus season. Staying up to date with recommended COVID-19 vaccines can help protect against current variants and can reduce your risk of severe illness and hospitalization. 

People who have COVID-19 can have a wide range of symptoms. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. They can include fever, chills, cough, fatigue, shortness of breath, body aches, headaches, sore throat, loss of taste or smell, congestion, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. 

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is also a common respiratory virus that can cause serious illness in infants, older adults and people with certain underlying health conditions. RSV vaccines are recommended for eligible older adults, and preventive immunizations are available to help protect infants during their first RSV season. People with RSV usually develop symptoms within four to six days, which can include a runny nose, decreased appetite, coughing, sneezing, fever and wheezing. 

Talk with your health care provider about whether COVID-19 and RSV protection are recommended for you or your family.

 

How Can I Get Vaccinated? 

GHC-SCW offers a variety of options for members to access seasonal vaccines, including flu, COVID-19 and RSV immunizations. Members can receive recommended vaccines through their primary care clinic and also have access to testing and treatment options if they become ill. Because vaccine recommendations can vary based on age, health conditions and risk factors, talk with your GHC-SCW care team about which vaccines are right for you and when to receive them. 

For the latest information on vaccine availability, testing and treatment options, visit GHC-SCW’s Vaccine, Treatment and Testing Options for COVID-19, Flu and RSV webpage. 

 

Protect Yourself and Your Community 

Getting vaccinated is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent serious illness during respiratory virus season. Combined with other healthy habits, such as staying home when you’re sick, washing your hands and covering coughs and sneezes, vaccines help keep our communities healthier all season long. 

Talk with your GHC-SCW care team about which seasonal vaccines are recommended for you and your family. 

 

Additional Sources

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

We will implement holiday hours at our clinics and Administrative Building in observance of Labor Day on Monday, September 7, 2026. Check out the upcoming holiday hours in the chart below:

 

Facility

Monday, September 7 | 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
  • 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

 

Back-to-school season often means focusing on school supplies, extracurricular schedules and first-day outfits. But just as important is making sure your child is healthy, rested and ready to learn. 

Taking proactive steps before the first day of school can help set students up for academic success and overall well-being. Here are four important items to add to your back-to-school checklist.

1. Start Shifting Sleep Schedules Before School Begins

Summertime usually brings later bedtimes, less structured routines and more mornings spent sleeping in. When school starts, the transition to earlier mornings can leave children feeling tired, irritable and less focused in the classroom. Getting good quality sleep plays an essential role in concentration, memory, learning and emotional well-being.

To help ease the transition, consider adjusting your child’s sleep schedule one to two weeks before school starts. Shifting their bedtime and wake-up time earlier by 15 to 30 minutes every few days can help their body adjust to the new school morning routine. 

Sleep needs vary by age, but experts generally recommend: 

Creating a consistent sleep routine before the school year begins can help your child feel rested and ready to take on the year ahead (American Academy of Pediatrics). 

2. Schedule an Annual Physical with Your Child’s Primary Care Provider

Keeping up to date with an annual wellness visit is one of the most important steps families can take for their child’s health. The start of the school year is the perfect time to get that scheduled. These appointments allow your child’s Primary Care Provider to monitor growth and development, review immunization records, discuss nutrition and sleep habits and address any concerns about physical or mental health. 

Regular checkups can also help identify concerns early, including vision, hearing or other health challenges that could impact learning and participation at school. If your child manages a chronic condition like asthma, allergies or diabetes, a wellness visit is a good time to update their care plans and discuss any medication needs. 

Because annual physical appointments can sometimes be difficult to get, especially during busy times of the year, families are encouraged to plan ahead and schedule wellness visits well in advance. Even if your child’s appointment is several months away, getting it on the calendar helps ensure they receive important care and follow-up to support their health and success throughout the school year. 

To schedule an appointment, log into your GHCMyChart account or call their clinic at (608) 257‑9700. 

 3. Make Sure Your Child’s Vaccinations Are Up to Date

Schools bring together large groups of students in classrooms, cafeterias and shared activity spaces, making it easier for contagious illnesses to spread. Vaccines help protect children from serious diseases and reduce the risk of outbreaks within schools and the broader community. 

Review your child’s immunization records before the school year begins to make sure they are on schedule for their age. If you have questions about your child’s vaccination needs, reach out to their Primary Care Provider. They can evaluate your child’s immunization record, discuss recommended vaccines and help ensure all school requirements are met. 

To learn more about the recommended vaccine schedule for adolescents, visit the Wisconsin Department of Health Childhood Immunization page. 

4. Prepare Nutritious School Lunches and Snacks

Did you know that kids and teens in the United States get up to half of their daily calories from foods and snacks eaten at school? Because so much of their nutrition happens during the school day, school lunches and snacks play an important role in supporting learning, growth and overall well-being. 

Instead of aiming for perfection, focus on offering a variety of foods that can help keep your child satisfied and energized throughout the day. Remember that every family has different routines, budgets and preferences. Even small changes can make a meaningful difference for your child. 

Consider packing a lunch or snack that includes: 

Check out this blog for more school snack and lunch ideas: 30+ Healthy Children’s Lunch Ideas. 

A Healthy Start Makes a Difference 

The start of a new school year is an exciting time, and by adjusting sleep schedules, scheduling an annual physical, ensuring vaccinations are current and planning nutritious meals, you can help your child start the year on a healthy and confident note. 

Additional Resources: 

Colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer among men and women in the United States (American Cancer Society). It begins in the colon or rectum and often develops precancerous growths, called polyps, that can be detected and removed before they become cancerous.

Early detection saves lives. Keep reading to learn why colorectal cancer screening is important, what screening options are available and the steps you can take to lower your risk of developing colorectal cancer.

Who Can Get Colorectal Cancer?

Anyone can develop colorectal cancer, but some people have a higher risk than others. While the risk increases with age, colorectal cancer is being diagnosed more frequently in younger adults, making awareness and screening especially important.

Certain health conditions and factors can increase your risk, including:

If you have any of these risk factors, talk with your health care provider about when and how often you should be screened.

Why is Screening Important?

Colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable cancers through regular screening. It often develops without symptoms in its early stages. Screening can detect precancerous polyps before they turn into cancer and can identify cancer early, when treatment is most effective.

Most adults at average risk should begin screening at age 45 and continue through age 75, based on their provider’s recommended intervals. People with increased risk factors may need to start screening earlier.

What Screening Options Are There?

There are several effective screening methods available. Talk with your health care provider to determine which option would be the best fit for you.

  1. Colonoscopy: A colonoscopy allows a health care provider to examine the entire colon and rectum using a thin, flexible tube with a camera. Prior to the procedure, you will need to drink a bowel prep solution to clear the colon of stool. During the procedure, polyps can be removed, helping prevent cancer from developing. For people at average risk, a colonoscopy is usually recommended every 10 years. If polyps are found, more frequent screenings may be needed.
  2. Stool-Based Tests: Stool-based tests are convenient, non-invasive screening options that can often be completed at home. These tests check blood or abnormal DNA in the stool that may indicate colorectal cancer or precancerous polyps. The currently recommended test type is needed every three years. If a stool-based test returns a positive result for blood or abnormal DNA in your stool, a follow-up colonoscopy is needed to complete the screening process. A positive stool-based test can suggest the possible presence of colorectal cancer or precancerous polyps, but it does not confirm a cancer diagnosis.
  3. Virtual Colonoscopy (CT Colonography): A virtual colonoscopy uses specialized CT imaging to create detailed pictures of the colon and rectum. Prior to the procedure, you will need to drink a bowel prep solution to clear the colon of stool. This screening option is typically recommended every five years for eligible individuals. If abnormalities are found, a traditional colonoscopy is required for further evaluation and usually available on the same day.

Tips for Preventing Colorectal Cancer

While not all cases of colorectal cancer can be prevented, many are linked to lifestyle factors such as physical inactivity, poor nutrition, excess body weight, tobacco use and alcohol consumption. Making healthy lifestyle choices can help reduce your risk.

Consider these steps:

Take Action Today

Screening saves lives. If you are 45 or older or have increased risk factors, talk with your primary care provider about colorectal cancer screening. Choosing a screening test and staying up to date with recommended screenings can help detect problems early, when they are most treatable.

GHC-SCW is committed to providing preventive health services. Learn more about our offerings on our website:

Additional Resources:

From lake days, outdoor sports and backyard gatherings, Wisconsin summers mean more time spent outdoors. While sunshine can surely boost your mood, too much exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can harm your skin and increase your risk of skin cancer. Keep reading to learn simple strategies to help you stay safe while enjoying the summer season.

 

The Importance of Sun Safety

About 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer during their lifetime; however, skin cancer is also one of the most preventable cancers (American Academy of Dermatology Association). Most skin cancers are caused by too much exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays, an invisible form of radiation that comes from the sun, tanning beds and sun lamps.

Sun exposure affects everyone differently, but too much sun may cause painful sunburns, eye damage, an increased risk of skin cancer, skin irritation and premature aging (Food and Drug Administration). The sun’s UV rays can damage your skin in as little as 15 minutes. Being proactive with your skin care habits can help protect you and your loved ones from UV skin damage this summer and beyond.

 

Tips to Stay Safe in the Sun

Spending time outdoors is one of the best parts of summer, but it’s important to protect your skin while you enjoy it. A few consistent habits can help reduce your risk of skin damage, sunburn and skin cancer.

 

  1. Check the UV index and plan ahead: The UV index measures the intensity of the sun’s ultraviolet radiation, which varies by location and time. UV rays are strongest during midday hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Use the EPA’s UV Index Search to see the UV forecast for your location.
  2. Apply (and reapply) sunscreen: Find a sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection, is water-resistant and has an SPF of 30 or higher. Sunscreen should be applied to all skin not covered by clothing, including your nose, ears, neck, hands, feet and lips. Reapply your sunscreen every two hours OR after swimming, sweating or toweling off. Don’t forget to check your sunscreen’s expiration date, as expired sunscreen is less effective.
  3. Seek shade whenever you can: Spending time in the shade is one of the best ways to minimize UV exposure. Trees, umbrellas and outdoor shelters can help prevent harmful UV exposure during these warm summer months. Remember that UV rays can still reflect off surfaces like water, sand and pavement.
  4. Wear sun-protective clothing: Proper clothing can act as a barrier against UV rays. Consider wearing lightweight long-sleeved shirts and pants, using a wide-brimmed hat to cover your face and neck, along with sunglasses to protect your eyes.

 

Resources:

Enjoy the outdoors this summer by practicing proper sun safety and sharing this information with others.

As the Fourth of July falls on a Saturday this year, our clinic hours will not be affected. Should members need care – Urgent Care, Pharmacy, Lab and Imaging at Capitol Clinic will be open during our regular Saturday hours.

Check out our Fourth of July hours in the chart below:

 

Facility

Saturday, July 4 | 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
  • 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