June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month. This month encourages us to support those affected by Alzheimer’s and other brain conditions, learn the signs to look for, and understand how to care for our brains and overall mental health.
What is Alzheimer’s Disease?
Alzheimer’s Disease is a degenerative brain disease, meaning it progresses over time gradually and is irreversible. Alzheimer’s is a brain disorder caused by damage to nerve cells in the brain and is the most common cause of dementia. Dementia is the overarching term for loss of memory, problem-solving and thinking abilities that interfere with someone’s daily life.
Early Symptoms and When to Talk to a Provider
Some changes in memory and thinking are a normal part of aging. However, it’s important to have regular conversations with your Primary Care Provider, especially if you are having memory issues that are affecting your day-to-day life. Early detection is key to receiving the care and support needed.
Early Alzheimer’s symptoms typically appear after age 60. In some cases, early signs can appear in the mid-40s, though this is less common. This is known as early-onset Alzheimer’s disease. However, the majority of people with Alzheimer’s are 65 and older.
Below are some early symptoms to monitor and discuss with a health care provider if someone is experiencing them:
- Memory loss that disrupts daily life
- Confusion with time or place
- Difficulty completing familiar tasks at home, at work or at leisure
- Changes in mood or personality
Watch the video below from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to learn more about memory loss and the early signs to watch for.
Memory Loss is Not a Normal Part of Aging
Healthy Habits for Brain Health
Small habits can make a difference over time. Working on brain health is important at any age; it’s never too early or too late to support your own and others’ brain health.
Here are some helpful tips to support brain health:
- Physical activity – Staying active and engaging in physical activity, such as going on daily walks, not only keeps your body healthy, but it also helps strengthen your mind.
- Healthy diet – Eating a balanced, healthy diet fuels your brain and body. Nuts and fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for brain function. Antioxidants in berries may improve communication in brain cells. Leafy greens such as spinach and kale are high in nutrients that help support brain function.
- Sleep – Getting enough good quality sleep is extremely important for brain health and function. Adults are recommended to get at least 7 hours of sleep per night, but the quality of sleep is just as important as the number of hours.
- Social connection – Staying connected to people in whatever capacity feels right for you is essential. This can look as simple as going out for coffee with a friend, going for a walk and saying hi to those you pass or making phone calls to loved ones.
- Mental stimulation – There are many activities and hobbies people can pursue to stimulate their minds. Common ideas include doing puzzles, playing card or board games, reading books, engaging in word and language games such as crossword puzzles, mindfulness and meditation.
Support for Caregivers
Being a caregiver or loved one of someone with Alzheimer’s can be hard, especially on mental health. Below are some local and national resources for those in need.
The Alzheimer’s Association offers a 24/7 helpline for people living with dementia, caregivers, families and the public. Callers can connect with real people who provide information, local resources, crisis assistance and emotional support.
Memory Screening – If someone is concerned about memory loss, a screening can bring relief. The Wisconsin Department of Health Services has an at-home screening booklet that families can use together.
The Department of Human Services offers support through the Aging and Disability Resource Center of Dane County. They host events, publish a newsletter, and offer care and support for families and caregivers.
Alzheimer’s Family and Caregiver Support Program – Wisconsin Department of Health Services offers caregiver support for those caring for loved ones. This includes adult day care, in-home help, support groups, self-care, transportation and more.
Remember, if you are a caregiver of someone with Alzheimer’s, it’s important to prioritize your mental health and well-being as well. Talk with a behavioral health provider if you need extra support. Check out one of our latest blogs about mindfulness and meditation to help strengthen your mental health while caring for others.
Awareness, early recognition and support can make a meaningful difference for individuals and families affected by Alzheimer’s and other brain conditions. Taking small steps today, whether through healthy habits or reaching out for help, can support better brain health for the future.
Resources
10 Early Signs and Symptoms of Alzheimer’s & Dementia | alz.org
About Alzheimer’s | Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia | CDC
24/7 Helpline: 1.800.272.3900 | Alzheimer’s Association
We will implement holiday hours at our clinics and Administrative Building in observance of Memorial Day on Monday, May 25, 2026. Check out the upcoming holiday hours in the chart below:
Facility |
Monday, May 25 | 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:
|
Closed |
Group Health Cooperative of South Central Wisconsin (GHC-SCW) announced that Dr. Mark Huth, President and Chief Executive Officer, plans to retire in April 2027 after 20 years of service to the local, non-profit, member-owned Cooperative. Dr. Huth joined GHC-SCW in 2007 as a practicing Family Physician. Over the years, he advanced through several leadership roles, including Clinic Medical Director, Chief of Staff and Chief Medical Officer, before becoming President and CEO in 2015. His journey from practicing provider to CEO reflects a deeply rooted understanding of GHC-SCW’s patients, members, staff and cooperative mission.
“Dr. Huth’s leadership has shaped an important chapter in GHC-SCW’s history,” said Dr. Ann Hoyt, Chair of the GHC-SCW Board of Directors. “He has led with humility, clinical expertise, kindness and a deep belief in the power of cooperative health care. Under his leadership, GHC-SCW has strengthened its commitment to quality, expanded access to care, advanced health equity and remained true to its identity as a member-owned Cooperative.”
During Dr. Huth’s tenure as CEO, GHC-SCW earned national recognition for quality, innovation and member-centered care. The Cooperative was one of only two plans in the nation to achieve a 5 out of 5 Health Plan Rating from the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) in 2018 and was the highest ranked health plan for quality in the state in 2025 by the Alliance of Community Health Plans (ACHP). GHC-SCW also earned NCQA Health Equity Accreditation, expanded BadgerCare Plus service areas and launched new programs, such as the GHC Foundations Intensive Outpatient Program and a series of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) programs to improve access to much needed behavioral health services in the area.
Under Dr. Huth’s leadership, GHC-SCW continued to show that a local, non-profit Cooperative can lead nationally in health care innovation. From launching a first-of-its-kind health care Experience Guarantee to becoming the first health care organization in the world to adopt Epic’s AI Charting tool into medical practice, GHC-SCW has consistently embraced new ways to improve care for members. The Cooperative also became the first health care organization in Wisconsin to offer organ donation registration directly through GHCMyChart and was among the first organizations to fully expand interoperability through Trusted Exchange Framework and Common Agreement (TEFCA), helping ensure providers have better information to support safer, more connected care.
Beyond innovation, GHC-SCW also strengthened its role as a local community partner during Dr. Huth’s time as President and CEO. The Cooperative continued investing in initiatives that support students, families and community well-being, including celebrating 20 years of partnership with the Foundation for Madison’s Public Schools through the Adopt-a-School Program. As GHC-SCW prepares to celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2026, Dr. Huth’s leadership has helped position the Cooperative for continued service to members and the communities it serves.
Hear about Dr. Huth’s personal reflections on his time at GHC-SCW and the celebration of GHC-SCW’s 50th anniversary.
As both a medical provider and health plan executive, Dr. Huth brought together clinical knowledge, health insurance expertise and cooperative leadership. He has represented GHC-SCW through service with organizations including the Wisconsin Association of Health Plans, Alliance of Community Health Plans, National Cooperative Business Association and Cooperative Network, among others. Through this work, he helped elevate GHC-SCW’s voice in conversations about quality care, health plan innovation, community health and the future of cooperative health care.
Dr. Huth’s leadership has also been defined by his focus on people. Colleagues describe him as a steady, thoughtful leader who helped foster a culture of kindness, growth and continuous improvement. Throughout periods of change, uncertainty and opportunity, including the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Huth remained focused on GHC-SCW’s mission: partnering with members and the communities it serves to maximize health and well-being.
“I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to serve GHC-SCW, first as a primary care provider and later as CEO,” said Dr. Huth. “This organization is special because of its people. Our staff, providers, members, Board of Directors and community partners believe deeply in doing what is right for the people we serve. It has been an honor to help lead a Cooperative rooted in quality, kindness, innovation and the belief that health care is a human right.”
Dr. Huth’s leadership has been recognized beyond GHC-SCW. In 2025, he received Cooperative Network’s Cooperative Builder Award, honoring individuals who have contributed significant time and energy to building and maintaining cooperative heritage. He was also named to the InBusiness Power 100, recognizing influential leaders across Greater Madison and beyond and the Titan 100, recognizing the 100 top CEOs in the state of Wisconsin.
“Dr. Huth’s impact will be felt long after his retirement,” said Dr. Hoyt. “He has helped build a stronger, more innovative and more compassionate Cooperative. As we look ahead to GHC-SCW’s next chapter, we do so with gratitude for his leadership and confidence in the foundation he helped create.”
GHC-SCW’s Board of Directors has begun planning for a thoughtful leadership transition. Additional information about succession planning will be shared as more details become available.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to focus on mental well-being and learn healthy ways to support it. Life can be chaotic and busy, making it important to take time to care for yourself both mentally and physically.
Mental health affects how we think, feel and behave in our day-to-day lives. Having good, supported mental health helps people handle stress, make decisions, solve problems and stay focused. Another important aspect of good mental health and well–being is that it promotes self-esteem, social interactions and the ability to find meaning in daily life.
What is Mindfulness and Meditation?
Mindfulness is the practice of being fully present and aware of your thoughts, feelings and surroundings without judgment. It’s focused on staying in the moment, listening to your breathing, encouraging you to observe your thoughts and feelings and letting them pass, rather than getting caught up in them. There are many ways to practice mindfulness; some include meditation, breathing exercises and intentional movement, such as yoga. These activities and practices can be integrated into your daily activities.
Meditation is a technique under the umbrella of mindfulness. It is a formal practice aimed at helping people stay in the moment. It urges people to focus on a specific object or thought and typically requires more time and space than other mindfulness practices.
While these two terms are different, they become intertwined as we ground ourselves and become self-aware in our lives.
What are the Benefits of Mindfulness?
Being mindful not only promotes emotional well–being and regulation, strengthens mental health and the awareness of your mind and body, but it also supports the regulation of digestion, heart rate and breathing. Mindfulness reduces stress, anxiety and depression by breaking cycles of overthinking and worry. Increase in positive emotions like happiness and content has also been seen when people implement mindfulness practices into their lives.
Techniques for Practicing Mindfulness
Mindfulness can look like many things. You can participate in a mindfulness practice that takes thirty minutes or one that takes thirty seconds. Everyone is different and resonates with a technique that fits their needs and circumstances.
Many people think of meditation as the main mindfulness practice, and while it’s extremely beneficial, there are smaller, quicker ways to be mindful throughout the day as well. Here are some techniques you can try to be more present and mindful:
Meditation – There are many different types of meditation people practice, from focusing on breathing to movement-based meditation such as yoga. One of the most common for beginners is Mindfulness meditation, which involves sitting quietly, observing and focusing on thoughts and sensations without judgment. Some people take a mindful-breathing approach, paying attention to their breath to center their minds. There are different ways to follow along with guided meditation practices on YouTube and various mobile options such as the Calm app.
Journaling is a great way for people to incorporate mindful practices into their lives. You can sit down for one minute and write down what you’re grateful for or take ten minutes to reflect on life moments or things that may be causing stress. Getting stressful thoughts and feelings onto paper and out of the mind can feel very freeing. This is a great, easy mindfulness technique to build into a habit.
Sensory grounding- This mindfulness technique helps people in stressful moments or situations by focusing on the present. Identify five things you see, four you can touch, three you hear, two you smell and one you taste. This technique helps manage anxiety by keeping you grounded and focused.
Focusing on Your Senses – Mindfulness can be as easy as slowing down and taking a moment to notice the small things in your everyday life that might otherwise go unnoticed. When taking a bite of food, focus on eating slowly and taking in each flavor. Listen to the bird’s chirping in the morning and the rustling of the wind through the trees. Look at the sunrise or sunset and notice the colors of the clouds and the sky.
When life is busy, and it feels like time is always moving faster, it’s important to slow down and appreciate the little things. Practicing mindfulness in whatever capacity feels right for each person enhances mental well-being.
Find more information and mindfulness techniques below. Follow GHC-SCW on Facebook and Instagram for some helpful practices from Behavioral Health Providers this Mental Health Awareness month.
Resources and More Mindfulness Techniques
Mental Health Awareness Month | SAMHSA
Mindfulness | Mental Health Foundation
All 42 Types of Meditation: The Complete List – Meditation Music Library
6 Reasons Mental Health Is SO Important
Behavioral Health – Group Health Cooperative of South Central Wisconsin
Celebrate 50 years of member-centered care with our 50th Anniversary Legacy Trail! This outdoor scavenger hunt features rock-like cache containers called Legacy Trail caches, each representing a year that GHC-SCW has been serving their members, from 1976 – 2026. All caches will be hidden across Dane County and neighboring areas. Designed for families, individuals and beginners alike, this adventure invites everyone to explore local parks and community spaces with no special skills required.
The Legacy Trail adventure runs May 5 through September 29, 2026, giving players the entire summer to explore new places and celebrate 50 years of GHC-SCW. New caches will be released every two weeks on the Legacy Trail website. Players can create an account to view new cache locations, enter to win prizes and learn more about GHC-SCW’s history and impact in the community.
Learn More and Get Started
How Can I Participate?
Everyone (except for the GHC-SCW staff who know where the caches are hidden, of course!)
What You’ll Need:
- A smartphone or GPS-enabled device
- A map app such as Google Maps or Apple Maps
- Comfortable walking shoes and awareness of your surroundings
Inspired by the popular activity of geocaching, each Legacy Trail cache is hidden at a specific set of coordinates. Each cache listing on the Legacy Trail Adventure website includes GPS coordinates that guide you to their exact location. On your first time accessing the website, you will be prompted to create an account. In this account, you can find the coordinates for each cache, view how close you are to earning prizes and learn more about GHC-SCW’s history.
How to Navigate to a Cache Location:
- Select a cache to discover on our website: explore.ghcscw.com.
- Head to the featured property address for your selected cache.
- Tap Find Cache or paste the coordinates into your phone’s map (Google Maps or Apple Maps), follow the directions and start searching. All caches look the same, so keep an eye out!
- Found it? Open the bottom, scan the QR code or enter the code on the explore.ghcscw.com website. Be sure to create an account to track your progress and unlock prizes.
- Close the cache and place it back exactly as you found it so others can join in on the fun.
Your progress and prize eligibility will update automatically online.
Earn Prizes
You can earn prizes by finding each of the caches! After you register a cache online, you will be able to see your progress towards different prize tiers. The more caches you find, the more prizes you earn!
The Legacy Trail offers several ways to participate and win, including:
- Help Give Back: As part of the experience, every player will have the opportunity to vote and help donate over $25,000 to nonprofit organizations in our community.
- Weekly Drawings: One winner each week will receive a $100 valued prize item. Entries are based on how many caches each player finds — the more they find, the more entries they earn.
- Cache Prizes: Each time a player finds and registers a new cache, they are automatically entered into that cache’s $100 valued prize drawing, announced at the end of the event. Players are entered into every cache drawing they unlock, increasing their chances of winning. In addition, the first 25 players to find each cache will have the opportunity to select a limited-edition 50th anniversary commemorative coin available inside the container.
- Earn Cache Rewards: Some rewards unlock automatically as a player finds and registers caches. Find 5, 25 or 50 caches and they can unlock prizes such as leather carabiners, tote bags or insulated water bottles.
- Grand Prize Drawing: One winner will receive a $1,000 grand prize. Entries are based on total caches found throughout the event — the more caches a player discovers, the more entries they earn and the better their chances of winning.
This fun-filled adventure isn’t just about celebrating a milestone; it’s about giving back to the community. Each cache will be placed at a variety of meaningful locations, including longtime community partners, local businesses and outdoor spaces that promote health and well-being. Featured locations will include iconic destinations such as Henry Vilas Zoo, Schuster’s Farm, Vitense Golfland and more.
To ensure accessibility, GHC-SCW has also created virtual cache options for those who are not able to visit each location in person, allowing more people to participate in the experience. To view the virtual caches, visit explore.ghcscw.com and click Find Caches. Select the one you’d like to “find.” Each cache page will include a link to the virtual option beneath the physical GPS coordinates.
Important Reminders:
- You will not need to use the official Geocaching® website or app
- This campaign is an independent geocache-style activity created by GHC-SCW
- Please do not share registration codes online or with others
- Always follow posted rules, laws and property guidelines
Ready to start the adventure? Visit explore.ghcscw.com to join the GHC-SCW Legacy Trail and begin finding hidden caches. Follow GHC-SCW on Instagram and Facebook to stay updated!
Did you know that April is Autism Acceptance Month? This month celebrates and honors the experiences and identities of Autistic individuals. Together, we can emphasize understanding, inclusion and support to move beyond awareness and toward meaningful acceptance and appreciation (Autism Society).
Continue reading to expand your perspective on Autism and the spectrum of neurodiversity.
What Is Autism?
Autism is a developmental disability, meaning that Autistic people’s brains work differently from those of non-autistic people. As such, Autism influences how people think, communicate, socialize and process the world around them.
Sometimes people talk about Autism as a spectrum. This just means that every Autistic person experiences Autism differently.
It is important to note that Autism impacts all genders, races, ages, income levels, ethnicities and religions. Autism has historically been most researched and understood in males and young children, but we are beginning to learn more about what Autism looks like across different genders, ages and identities.
Autistic Experiences
Autistic people communicate in many different ways. Some Autistic people use spoken language, while others communicate through sign language, writing, picture systems or communication devices. Additionally, Autistic people may use a few words, repeat words or phrases or communicate very directly. All of these are valid ways of sharing thoughts, needs and feelings.
Autistic people also socialize in many ways. In some cases, Autistic people enjoy talking with others, while others connect through shared interests, doing side-by-side activities or spending time together without much conversation. Importantly, Autistic people may show care and connection through actions rather than expressing feelings through words. This variety of experiences means that some Autistic people may need a lot of support in daily life, and others only need a little.
Why Is Autism Acceptance Month Important?
Autistic individuals have an incredible range of strengths and needs across areas such as communication and social styles, interests, self-regulation strategies, learning styles and sensory needs. Autistic people are an important part of society and deserve to be understood, supported and appreciated for who they are. There are many ways to support Autistic people. To learn more, please review the resources below.
Note: This blog uses identity-first language, such as “Autistic person,” instead of “person with Autism.” Many people in the Autism community prefer language that recognizes Autism as an important part of who they are rather than something separate from them.
Learn More About Autism
To learn more about Autism and neurodiversity and how to support neurodiverse individuals in your life, please check out the resources below compiled by our Autism Services team.
Some of the GHC-SCW Autism Services team including Athena Lickel (Psychologist and Manager of Autism Services), Weston Dixon (Occupational Therapist), Maureen Wood (Psychologist), Bao Nguyen (Program Assistant) and Valkyrie Bradford (Program Assistant).
Websites:
- Autism Program at GHC-SCW: The Autism Program at GHC SCW is grounded in a neuroaffirming philosophy that recognizes Autism as a natural part of human diversity. Our approach centers on understanding and supporting each individual. We focus on helping Autistic people thrive by honoring their strengths, preferences, communication styles and sensory needs. Support is tailored to what matters most to each person and their family, with an emphasis on well-being, autonomy and quality of life. By partnering with children and caregivers, the program works to reduce barriers, build skills when desired and create environments where Autistic people feel respected, understood and supported
- Autism Society of Wisconsin: The Autism Society of Wisconsin offers a wide breadth of resources and support for Autistic kids, teens and adults, including resource directories, group activities, local conferences and more. This is the go-to resource our Autism providers recommend to families seeking additional support in the community!
- Autistic Self Advocacy Network: The Autistic Self Advocacy Network is led by and for Autistic people. It centers Autistic voices and promotes the idea that Autistic individuals are the best experts on their own lives. This resource is especially helpful for learning about autism from a lived experience perspective, understanding disability rights and exploring respectful language and inclusive practices.
- What is neurodiversity? (Harvard Health): This article from Harvard Health offers a clear and approachable introduction to neurodiversity. It explains how brain differences, such as Autism, are a natural part of human diversity rather than something that needs to be fixed. This is a helpful starting point for anyone new to the concept or looking to better understand why acceptance and accommodation matter.
Books:
- Understanding Autism: A Neurodiversity Affirming Guidebook for Children and Teens by Robert Jason Grant: This book explains Autism in a way that emphasizes strengths, identity and self-understanding. It is especially helpful for children and teens who are learning about their diagnosis and want language that feels empowering rather than limiting.
- The Little Book of Autism FAQs: How to Talk with Your Child about Their Diagnosis and Other Conversations by Davida Hartman and Margaret Ann Suggs: This guide supports caregivers in having thoughtful, honest conversations about Autism. It offers clear answers to common questions and practical guidance for discussing diagnosis in ways that build confidence and trust.
- Is this Autism? A Guide for Clinicians and Everyone Else by Donna Henderson: This book helps readers understand the wide range of ways Autism can look across different people and life stages. The illustrations and examples make complex ideas easier to grasp, making it useful for professionals, caregivers and Autistic adults alike.
- All My Stripes: A Story for Children with Autism by Shaina Rudolph and Danielle Royer. Illustrated by Jennifer Zivoin: This children’s book tells the story of a young zebra who learns that his Autism is just one part of who he is. It is a gentle and affirming story that helps children understand differences while reinforcing self-worth and belonging.
Video:
- Amazing Things Happen! (Introduction to Autism for Kids): This short, animated video introduces Autism in a kid-friendly and positive way. It explains differences in communication and sensory experiences while emphasizing kindness, understanding and friendship. It is a great resource for classrooms, families and siblings.
Celebrate Wisconsin’s Home Team Advantage in Health Care During Community Health Plans Week April 19–25, 2026
When it comes to health care coverage, having a plan that understands your community can make all the difference. That’s why the Wisconsin Association of Health Plans is celebrating Community Health Plans Week, April 19–25, 2026, and recognizing the local plans that help make Wisconsin’s health care system one of the strongest in the nation.
Community health plans, like GHC-SCW, are built around a simple idea: health coverage should work for the people and communities it serves. Wisconsin’s community health plans are rooted right here in the state. They work closely with local hospitals, providers, clinics and care teams to ensure families have access to high-quality, coordinated care close to home.
Benefits of Wisconsin’s Community Health Plans
For people in Wisconsin, this local connection matters. Community health plans focus on supporting people throughout their health journey; from preventive care and wellness programs to specialized treatment and recovery. Wisconsinites benefit from strong provider partnerships, responsive customer service and coverage designed with the needs of families in mind.
Community health plans bring choice and stability to the marketplace, offering meaningful advantages for employers and benefits professionals. Wisconsin consistently ranks among the most competitive health insurance markets in the country, helping businesses offer strong health benefits that support employee well-being while managing long-term costs. These health plans collaborate with small and large employers to develop solutions that keep workers healthy, productive and supported.
Health plans based in our community help strengthen Wisconsin’s health care system through innovation, partnership and community investment. From supporting local health initiatives to working closely with care providers in communities across the state, Community health plans, including GHC-SCW, contribute to healthier communities and improved access to care.
Why Community Health Plans Week Matters
Today, community health plans, including the 16 members of the Wisconsin Association of Health Plans, serve all 72 counties in Wisconsin, ensuring residents and employers have meaningful choices when selecting health coverage. Their commitment to local communities is one of the reasons Wisconsin’s health care systems stands out nationally.
Community Health Plans Week is an opportunity to celebrate the organizations and community partnerships that emphasize the value of home-grown care and to recognize the importance of keeping health care connected to the local communities and families it serves.
Learn more about Wisconsin’s community health plans and how they support healthier communities across the state at WICommunityHealthPlans.com.
For many, spring marks the start of allergy season. Think runny noses, itchy eyes and lots of sneezing. Warmer temperatures cause trees to bloom, increasing the amount of airborne pollen, which can cause allergy symptoms throughout spring and into summer.
Keep reading to learn about common allergy symptoms and tips to enjoy the spring season to the fullest.
Common Symptoms
Allergy symptoms vary, but common spring ones include:
- Irritated eyes: Your eyes might feel itchy, swollen or watery and can appear slightly red.
- Head congestion: This may result in a stuffy or runny nose, sinus pressure or headaches.
- Sneezing and coughing: Sinus irritation can lead to increased sneezing and coughing.
- Sore throat: A postnasal drip (extra mucus in the back of the throat) can make your throat feel dry, scratchy or sore. It may even feel slightly painful to swallow.
- Itchy skin: Your nose, eyes, mouth and ears may itch. Avoid scratching to reduce irritation.
- Fatigue or brain fog: Allergies can affect concentration and cause sleepiness.
Strategies for Allergy Relief
Although allergies are uncomfortable, medications and small lifestyle changes can help control spring symptoms.
Keep an eye on the tree pollen count in your area.
Check pollen counts to predict flare-ups. Visit WeatherBug’s Live Pollen Map & Allergy Forecast or use pollen tracking apps like My Pollen Forecast. These tools can help you predict when your allergies may be heightened and help you determine if it’s the right time to take allergy medicine.
Choose appropriate spring allergy medications.
Over-the-counter medications can be a major help to address allergy symptoms, but it’s important to figure out what works best for you. There are multiple options, including:
- Antihistamines: Take these medications to suppress sneezing, itching and a runny nose caused by spring allergies. Common options include cetirizine (Zyrtec), loratadine (Claritin), fexofenadine (Allegra) and levocetirizine (Xyzal). Please note that directions may differ based on the brand.
- Nasal sprays: For nasal congestion, postnasal drip or sinus pressure, try an over-the-counter spray such as fluticasone (Flonase) for up to 24 hours of relief.
If these options do not provide enough relief, or you want to use less medication, contact your primary care provider for additional options.
Use saline sprays and neti pots.
A medicine-free option is using a neti pot or nasal rinse with salt water to flush pollen from your nasal cavity. Rinsing one to two times per day can help reduce congestion and sinus pressure from pollen allergies.
Prevent pollen from coming into your home.
If you spend a lot of time outside during peak pollen season, you may bring pollen into your home on clothes, shoes, skin or pets. Remove shoes outside, change clothes before going indoors and consider showering after long periods outside. You can also wipe pets with a towel to reduce pollen brought inside.
Keep your indoor air clean.
Keep windows closed to limit pollen indoors. Pollen is often carried by the wind, and open windows can increase the amount of airborne pollen in your home. Use an air purifier or allergy-reducing HVAC filter to clean your air.
More Resources
Spring allergies can feel like a common nuisance, but there are plenty of reasons why your springtime symptoms may be worth discussing with a provider. If you’re experiencing severe discomfort, contact your health care provider to discuss your options.
Starting on March 8th, we recognize National Sleep Awareness Week. Getting quality sleep is an essential part of supporting overall health and well-being; however, 6 out of every 10 adults don’t get the recommended 7 – 9 hours of sleep per night (National Sleep Foundation 2025 Poll).
Sleeping is a critical time for your body and brain to rest and recover. Managing daily life with less than the recommended hours of sleep can have long-term health effects, such as fatigue, mood changes, poor balance and coordination, a weakened immune system and higher stress levels (Cleveland Clinic).
If you struggle with falling asleep, staying asleep or feeling rested when you wake up, read these tips and tricks to help build a healthy sleep routine.
Strategies for Better Sleep
1. Create a consistent sleep schedule
Our bodies follow a circadian rhythm, meaning we have an internal clock that regulates our sleep and wake cycles. Building a consistent sleep pattern and nighttime routine can help promote better sleep quality.
- Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. Try setting a daily “wind down” alarm to remind you to get ready for bed.
- Limit long naps during the day, especially in the afternoon.
- Try to get morning sunlight to regulate your circadian rhythm by opening your window shades or taking a morning walk.
2. Improve your sleep environment
Our sleep environments can play a big role in our sleep quality. A few simple changes can help optimize your bedroom to promote rest the whole night.
- Set your room temperature cooler in the evening, between 60 and 67° F.
- Reduce unwanted noise by using a fan or white noise machine. You can also try earplugs to quiet any uncontrollable noise.
- Use an eye mask or blackout curtains to limit the amount of light in your room.
- Try a new pillow that’s best suited to your sleep position, including special pillows designed for people who sleep on their side.
3. Reduce screen time before bed
Devices with screens, like computers, cell phones and televisions, emit blue light, which stimulates our brains and can trigger stress responses. In turn, it may be more difficult to fall asleep. It is recommended to stop using devices at least 1 hour before bed to help your brain prepare for sleep.
- Try swapping nighttime screen time with a physical hobby like reading or journaling.
- Switch your home lights to warm and dim lighting in the evening.
- Try blue light-blocking glasses or enable “night mode” on your devices.
- Leave your devices in another room while you get ready for bed or put them in a designated drawer out of reach.
4. Avoid food stimulants and sleep disruptors.
What you eat before bed can play a big role in the quality of your rest. Some foods and drinks can actually hinder falling or staying asleep when eaten before bed.
- Avoid consuming caffeine in the afternoon and evenings (coffee, soda, energy drinks).
- Avoid alcohol, which disrupts natural sleep cycles and REM sleep.
- Reduce your fluid intake before bedtime to help prevent nighttime bathroom trips.
You deserve quality sleep every night;. tTake steps today to create a more relaxing, restful routine. If you have additional sleep-related concerns, please get in touch with your Primary Care Provider, who will help you answer any questions.
If you continue to struggle with getting quality sleep, your clinician may recommend Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) as a next step. Generally, medications are used as a last choice option because they can have significant negative effects on sleep quality and duration.
More Resources
On March 1st, 2026, Group Health Cooperative of South Central Wisconsin (GHC-SCW) celebrated 50 years since we welcomed our very first patient in 1976. As Wisconsin’s first member-owned, non-profit health care cooperative, we have always believed that our patients and members deserve a place at the top of the leadership structure, giving them a voice in their health care.
Throughout 2026, we are excited to reflect on the past five decades of milestones and continue to look for ways to maximize health and well-being for our south central Wisconsin communities. We are so thankful to all our GHC-SCW members, staff and community partners for being a part of our 50-year journey.
Continue reading to learn more about this year’s celebrations and GHC-SCW’s legacy of Better Together!
Our Founding Story
Started with merely 49 founding members, we have grown to serve over 70,000 member-owners across south central Wisconsin, bridging quality health care and health insurance together.
GHC-SCW’s story begins with the novel vision of early founding members: consumers of health care should own and direct the way that their health care is delivered. These members believed that preventive care was essential for lifelong health. They also wanted greater control of member costs as the established health system was notorious for high medical costs.
With only 49 founding members, the Cooperative faced an uphill battle of securing funding, building a quality care delivery system and establishing an organizational foundation that could sustain itself over time. Despite these challenges, the founders’ steadfast belief in the mission ushered GHC-SCW forward.
Each year, membership and staff grew, resulting in expanded care and growth opportunities. Access to a federal grant supported this growth and confirmed that GHC-SCW’s vision was a worthwhile investment for the health of Wisconsinites. And after celebrating our 20th anniversary in 1996, GHC-SCW was named the #1 HMO in the country. This recognition affirmed that GHC-SCW was on the right path, toward a future where member-owned health care cooperatives make a real difference.
Since these initial years, we have established five GHC-SCW primary care clinics and two specialty clinics to provide high quality, accessible care and health insurance to over 70,000 in Dane County and beyond. From physical and occupational therapy to behavioral health services to imaging and lab services, we continue to expand our offerings to support the changing needs of our communities. GHC-SCW is incredibly proud of our commitment to our founding members’ original vision, and we can’t wait to see where the next fifty years take us next!
Check out our history page to learn more: ghcscw.com/about-us/history
Celebrate with Us!
Throughout the year, we will be introducing community activities, opportunities to win prizes, sharing our history in member communications and more to celebrate our long history! Here’s a sneak peak of what you can expect:
- Clinic History Wall Installations: Each of our clinics will be getting new history wall installations, featuring our major milestones over the past five decades. Installations will occur on a clinic per month basis.
- Share Your Story or Staff Kudos: We want to hear from you! Members, staff and community partners can fill out this form to share their GHC-SCW experiences and memories. [ghcscw.com/form/share-your-story]. We’ll be sharing these stories with staff, our website, social media platforms, HouseCall and email communications to highlight GHC-SCW’s impact.
- Member Communications: 50th anniversary content will be shared in the monthly member emails, a special 50th mailer in April, our Spring HouseCall newsletter in May and across our social media accounts throughout the year. We will highlight key history events, community stories, opportunities to get involved and much more!
- GHC-SCW Legacy Trail Activity: Participate in our outdoor or virtual Geocache scavenger Hunt (with prizes!) starting on May 4, 2026. More details to come in the special 50th Anniversary mailer and on our website.
- Annual Membership Meeting: Participate in our 50th annual membership meeting and election on June 25, 2026. Thank You for 50 Years!
Thank you for being a part of our 50-year history as a member-owned cooperative. GHC-SCW looks forward to a year of reflection, celebration and growth as we continue to shape the Better Together legacy for many years to come.
50 Years, 50 Stories
As this year marks GHC’s 50th anniversary, we’ve been collecting stories from members, staff and community partners through interviews and written articles about their positive experiences at GHC-SCW. From longtime providers and staff, to members whose lives were changed through care at GHC-SCW and those who have been with us from the very beginning, these stories reflect what it truly means to be a Cooperative.
Be sure to follow along and learn about GHC-SCW’s journey over the last 50 years by tuning into our 50 Years, 50 Stories series each week on YouTube. You can also follow us on Instagram and Facebook as we share other celebrations throughout 2026.
Early Photo Highlights
GHC-SCW Opens Its Doors (1976)
Sauk Trails Construction (1993) and Open House (1994)
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Capitol Clinic Groundbreaking (1994) and Open House (1995)
Annual Service Dinner (1997) – GHC-SCW Named #1 HMO in the Country
