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.”
Wednesday, September 24 Update:
Based on Governor Tony Evers’ statewide Executive Order, the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) issued a statewide standing medical order that allows those over 6 months old who want to receive the COVID-19 vaccine to get it at pharmacies across the state without a prescription. This means members can receive the vaccine at Hy-Vee and Costco, covered by GHC-SCW. The Moderna COVID vaccine is now available at all GHC-SCW clinics.* Please refrain from scheduling at the Madison College Clinic unless it is your Primary Clinic.
*The vaccine will be given while supplies last and is never guaranteed due to limited supply and demand.
Eligibility:
Anyone 6 months or older may receive the COVID-19 vaccine, per Gov. Evers Executive Order. (No one has to be over 65 years or older, or immunocompromised, to receive this vaccine, like in the past.)
If you are 65 or older, the CDC recommends you receive the COVID-19 vaccine as part of your routine care. You do not need to have a special conversation with your care team. If you are due for your COVID-19 vaccine, you can get it when supply is available!
If you are under 65, the CDC states that COVID-19 vaccination is based on “shared decision-making.” This means the vaccine is available to you, provided you have had a conversation with your primary care provider team to confirm the vaccine is correct for you.
Coverage: GHC-SCW will cover this year’s COVID-19 vaccine.
GHC-SCW Clinics:
- 6 months to 11 years old: We currently have VERY limited supply. This may change in the near future, but for now:
- The COVID-19 vaccine can be scheduled at the GHC-SCW weekday flu clinics or added to your upcoming Primary Care Provider appointment notes.
- This will NOT be available at Capitol Clinic weekend Flu Clinics.
- 12 years and older: The COVID-19 vaccine can be scheduled at the GHC-SCW weekday or weekend flu clinics or added to your upcoming Primary Care Provider appointment notes.
- 6 months to 17 years old who have BadgerCare Plus Coverage: At this time, GHC-SCW clinics cannot schedule or administer the COVID-19 vaccine. Please check with your local pharmacy.
Pharmacies: Pharmacies operate under different regulations than health systems, which has allowed some to begin receiving vaccine shipments earlier. For example, Walgreens has already started offering the COVID-19 vaccine; however, GHC-SCW does not contract with Walgreens for vaccine administration. Our contracted pharmacies (Hy-Vee and Costco) are now offering the vaccine; it will be covered under your GHC-SCW benefits and no prescription is needed.
Previous COVID-19 vaccine: Last year’s COVID-19 vaccine is no longer being offered at our GHC-SCW clinics or at our partner pharmacies. It does not match currently circulating virus strains and receiving it now could delay your eligibility for the updated vaccine.
We are committed to keeping you informed and will share updates on this page and in upcoming member communications as soon as new information is available.
Immunization and surveillance programs have continuously lowered the risk of widespread measles outbreaks in the US. However, measles cases continue to occur due to unvaccinated travelers who get measles while visiting other countries, and in the under-vaccinated populations in the United States. The best way to stay ahead and prevent measles is to get vaccinated.
CDC has put together a toolkit called Be Ready for Measles, full of educational graphics, videos and fact sheets for health departments around the Nation. Here at GHC-SCW, we understand how important it is to be prepared for outbreaks and to keep our community healthy, so we’ve put together helpful information from the toolkit below.
What is Measles?
Measles is a very contagious disease caused by a virus that spreads through the air when someone with the virus coughs or sneezes. After someone sick with measles leaves an area, the virus can remain airborne for two hours. About 9 out of 10 people who don’t have measles vaccines and come in contact with someone who is sick will also become infected. This disease is especially dangerous for babies and young children.
Do you think your child has Measles?
What to do if you think your child has Measles:
Measles symptoms typically show up 7-14 days after coming in contact with the virus. The most common symptoms include:
- High fever, spiking to over 104
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red and/or watery eyes
- A rash on the face that breaks out 3-5 days after other symptoms begin
If you think someone in your family has measles, make sure you:
- Keep them away from others who aren’t sick. Have the person who is sick stay in one room/section of the house.
- Everyone who lives in the house should stay home to prevent the spread to those in the community.
- Call a doctor or hospital right away and let them know someone in the home possibly has the measles. Please do not take them in right away; the doctor will give information/instructions on what to do next.
Remember, do not come into the clinics if you are sick. Stay home unless the sickness rapidly gets worse, or the following symptoms occur:
- Trouble breathing or breathing gets faster than normal
- Pain when breathing or coughing
- Dehydration, including a dry nose and mouth, using the bathroom less frequently and crying without tears coming out
- Fever or headache that won’t go away
- Confusion or severe weakness
- Low energy, difficulty feeding/eating or a blue color is seen around the mouth
If these symptoms occur, do not wait; take your child to the emergency room.
How do you protect your family against measles?
It is never too late to get vaccinated! The measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine is the best way to stay protected against the measles. Not only does it protect you and your family, but it also keeps the people around you and your community healthy.
Talk with your provider if you or your child has not been vaccinated.
Learn more – CDC Measles Information, Tip Sheets and videos:
About Measles | Measles (Rubeola) | CDC
Preventing Measles Before and After Travel
Measles: It Isn’t Just a Little Rash
We will implement holiday hours at our clinics and Administrative Building in observance of Labor Day on Monday, September 1, 2025. Check out the upcoming holiday hours in the chart below:
Facility |
Monday, September 1 | 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 |
Why Are Girls 3x More Likely to Be Vaccinated Than Boys? Did you know HPV causes nearly 36,000 cases of cancer in the U.S. each year, and most of them could be prevented by a vaccine?
In 2006, the HPV vaccine was originally marketed to girls to prevent cervical cancer, but HPV causes cancer in all genders. Here at GHC-SCW, we want to spread awareness that the HPV vaccine isn’t just for girls. Boys need it too.
It’s safe. It’s effective. It could save a life.
What is HPV?
In the early 1980s, Human Papillomavirus (HPV) was found in cervical cancer cells, which sparked research and the eventual development of a vaccine. HPV is a sexually transmitted infection that spreads through skin-to-skin contact. There are about 40 different strains, or types, of HPV, and roughly 80% of sexually active people will come into contact with the virus at some point.
Most people with healthy immune systems can fight off the infection, but in some cases, it can become cancerous.
Vaccine History
The first HPV vaccine was patented in 1994, targeting four types of the virus. In 2006, the vaccine was approved by the FDA for girls ages 9 through 26. Today, we know that boys can also be affected by HPV, and they should be proactive in getting vaccinated too.
According to Cleveland Clinic, the HPV vaccine available today protects against 90% of the strains that cause cervical cancer, anal cancer and genital warts, as well as most strains that cause mouth and throat cancers.
Why Should Boys Get the HPV Vaccine Too?
While about 22,000 women are diagnosed with cancer caused by HPV each year, approximately 16,000 men are diagnosed with HPV-related cancers as well. The vaccine offers powerful protection before exposure and helps prevent cancers that can develop years later.
Protecting boys helps protect everyone.
Myths vs. Facts
Myth: HPV only affects girls, and girls only get cervical cancer, so boys don’t need the vaccine.
Fact: HPV affects everyone. While boys don’t get cervical cancer, HPV can still cause multiple cancers in males. Vaccinating them helps protect their health and reduces transmission to future partners.
Myth: The HPV vaccine is only for those who are sexually active.
Fact: The vaccine works best when given before any potential exposure to the virus. GHC-SCW recommends boys and girls as young as 9 receive the vaccine, well before most are sexually active. GHC-SCW encourages families and providers to have conversations early to make a plan.
Myth: The HPV Vaccine isn’t safe.
Fact: The HPV vaccine has been studied for over 15 years by the CDC, FDA and other organizations, and has a strong safety record. Like any vaccine, it may cause mild side effects like arm soreness, low-grade fever or feeling tired, but serious side effects are extremely rare.
Talk to your child’s Provider about getting them protected.
Learn more:
History of HPV Vaccine – National Vaccine Information Center (NVIC)
HPV Vaccination Recommendations | CDC
HPV Vaccine: Age, Schedule, Importance & Side Effects
GHC-SCW is excited to announce a new two-episode series partnership with Pogie the Yogie, a locally produced children’s show that combines movement, mindfulness and meaningful life lessons in a fun and engaging format for kids and families. This collaboration will consist of a two-episode series highlighting the shared values of wellness, health care and community connection.
What is Pogie the Yogie?
Created by Madison-based parents Corrina and Patrick Cunningham, Pogie the Yogie is a kids’ show that blends yoga-inspired movement, mindfulness practices and real-world adventures to help children build healthy bodies and curious minds.
Each episode begins with Pogie setting off on an exciting local adventure in Madison. Whether visiting a community organization like the Madison Fire Department or exploring a local small business, Pogie meets real people doing real work and learns about their roles and values. These interactions are playful and educational, helping kids understand how different community members contribute in meaningful ways.
Each 10-minute episode ends with Pogie returning his knowledge to the yoga mat. Using storytelling and movement, he guides children through a yoga sequence inspired by the day’s adventure. If the episode featured a visit to a farm, the yoga practice might include animal poses. This integration of real-world learning and mindful movement keeps kids engaged and helps them reflect on what they’ve seen and learned that day in an empowering way.
Many describe Pogie the Yogie as “Madison’s own Blippi—with a mindful twist” or a modern-day Mr. Rogers infused with yoga and community spirit. It’s thoughtful and adventurous, making it just as enjoyable for parents as it is for children.
The GHC-SCW Partnership
GHC-SCW is partnering with Pogie the Yogie for two custom episodes that encourage kids and families to embrace wellness as a fun part of everyday life. These episodes highlight key themes that align closely with GHC-SCW’s mission, including:
- Mindful movement as a lifelong habit for physical and emotional well-being
- Breathing and self-regulation tools that help children manage their emotions and develop resilience
- Community exploration to foster curiosity, empathy and a sense of belonging
- Healthy living habits delivered through engaging, family-friendly storytelling
In the first episode, titled Pogie the Yogie Visits the Doctor with Francesca Vash, Pogie visits a GHC-SCW clinic to learn about what happens during a wellness visit. Greeted by GHC-SCW staff Kate and Nurse Practitioner Francesca Vash, Pogie gets his height and weight checked, learns about measuring temperature and blood pressure and even gets his eyes and ears examined. Vash takes time to explain each step, ensuring Pogie understands how doctors care for the whole body, including emotional well-being. This episode helps children feel empowered by normalizing questions, showing them they can ask for help and making the idea of a doctor’s visit less intimidating.
The second episode, Labs with Jana and Kristen, takes Pogie through another part of the clinic experience: lab tests and X-rays. With guidance from the GHC-SCW team, Pogie explores what happens when you need a urine or blood test and learns how an X-ray works. Children learn that their bodies tell important stories, and tests like these help doctors understand how to keep them healthy and strong. The episode teaches bravery through breathing exercises, encourages empowerment through small choices (such as picking a comfort item) and highlights the friendly, helpful roles of lab technicians and radiologists.
Together, these episodes bring health care into the world of children in a way that feels warm, welcoming and fun.
Why GHC-SCW & Pogie the Yogie Are a Great Match
GHC-SCW and Pogie the Yogie are deeply rooted in Madison and passionate about serving local families. GHC-SCW has always supported community wellness through education, prevention and access to care. Partnering with this children’s program, which promotes mindfulness and movement, is a natural fit with GHC-SCW’s mission.
Pogie the Yogie teaches children to love themselves, their neighbors and their communities, just like GHC-SCW aims to support the health and well-being of everyone it serves. Both organizations hope to inspire the next generation of happy, healthy citizens by bringing health and mindfulness into a child’s everyday life.
What’s Next?
Subscribe to Pogie the Yogie on YouTube to get free, family-friendly episodes that blend movement, mindfulness and fun:
After subscribing, click the bell icon to turn on notifications, so you can be notified when a new episode is released. Check out the two GHC-SCW-sponsored episodes, Pogie the Yogie Visits the Doctor with Francesca Vash and Labs with Jana and Kristen, on PogieTheYogie.com and social media. Whether your child is a seasoned yogi or trying downward dog for the first time, these episodes are a joyful way to build healthy habits that last a lifetime.
As athletes, runners know that proper nutrition is just as essential as training in achieving peak performance. Whether you’re preparing for a marathon, a 5k or just hitting the trails, how you fuel your body can impact your energy, endurance and recovery. At GHC-SCW, we recognize that nutrition is not only essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle but also plays a crucial role in achieving optimal performance on race day. From pre-race meals to hydration and snacks, here’s what you need to know to fuel your runs effectively.
Pre-Race Meals: Setting Yourself Up for Success
What you eat before a race can make a significant difference in your performance. The goal of a pre-race meal is to top off glycogen stores, which are the primary energy source for endurance activities like running. However, you want to avoid foods that could cause discomfort, bloating or fatigue.
Timing is key:
Try to eat your pre-race meal about 2-3 hours before your race starts. This allows your body time to digest and absorb nutrients. For longer races, consider eating a slightly larger meal, while shorter races might benefit from a smaller portion.
What to eat:
Focus on carbohydrate-rich foods that are easy to digest, moderate in protein and low in fat and fiber. Carbohydrates provide the quick energy your muscles need during the run, while protein helps to stabilize blood sugar and repair muscle. Here are some examples:
- Oatmeal with a banana – A simple and easy-to-digest meal that provides complex carbs.
- Bagel with peanut butter or almond butter – The bagel gives you quick-digesting carbs, while the nut butter provides a small amount of healthy fats and protein.
- Rice with lean chicken – For a savory option, this delivers complex carbs and lean protein.
- Smoothie with yogurt, berries and spinach – A lighter option packed with carbs, protein and micronutrients to boost energy.
Hydration: The Foundation of Performance
Staying hydrated is crucial for any runner, but it’s especially important on race day when you will be exerting yourself for long periods. Dehydration can lead to fatigue, cramps and reduced performance. Here are some hydration guidelines to follow:
Pre-race hydration:
Start hydrating in the days before your race with 8-10 cups of water daily. On race morning, drink 8-16 ounces 1-2 hours before the start. Avoid consuming excessive amounts of liquid immediately before the race, as this can lead to discomfort.
During the race:
For races longer than an hour, electrolyte replacement becomes important. Water is great for hydration, but you’ll also need to replace electrolytes like sodium, potassium and magnesium to prevent cramping and maintain fluid balance. Many races provide sports drinks, but if you’re running solo, consider carrying an electrolyte-enhanced drink or electrolyte tablets.
Post-race:
After the race, continue hydrating with water or an electrolyte drink to replenish lost fluids. If your race was particularly long or intense, a recovery drink containing carbohydrates and protein can help support muscle repair and replenish glycogen stores.
Snacks: Quick and Effective Fueling
Snacking during training and on race day is an effective way to keep your energy levels stable. Depending on the length of your run, you may need to refuel mid-run or after the race.
Pre-training snacks:
If you’re heading out for a run and haven’t had time for a full meal, a small, easily digestible snack 30-60 minutes before can give you the energy boost you need. Some great pre-run snacks include:
- Banana with peanut butter – A good balance of quick carbs and healthy fats.
- Energy bar – Choose one with a balance of carbs, protein and fiber for sustained energy.
- Half a granola bar or a slice of bread with honey – Low in fiber and easy to digest.
Mid-run snacks:
If you’re running for longer than 60-90 minutes, portable, easy-to-carry options are best. Try:
- Gels or chews – Fast-digesting carbohydrate sources designed for endurance athletes.
- Sports drinks – In addition to hydration, they provide quick energy and electrolytes.
- Small pieces of fruit – If you’re running a race with aid stations, opt for fruits like oranges or bananas.
Post-run snacks:
Refueling after a run is crucial for muscle recovery. Ideally, consume a snack within 30 minutes of completing your run to support muscle repair and replenish glycogen stores. Good options include:
- Chocolate milk – A balance of protein, carbs and electrolytes.
- Greek yogurt with fruit – Packed with protein and carbohydrates to support recovery.
- Trail mix – Nuts, dried fruits and seeds provides healthy fats, carbs and protein.
At GHC-SCW, we are not only committed to helping runners achieve their best performance, but we also provide comprehensive services to meet athletes’ diverse needs. From personalized nutrition education to sports medicine, physical therapy and occupational therapy, we are here to support your journey every step of the way. Our experienced professionals work with you to design nutrition plans tailored to your specific athletic goals, ensuring that you get the most out of your training, performance and recovery.
Whether you’re training for a marathon or simply looking to improve your run, proper nutrition, hydration and fueling are the keys to success. Let us help you unlock your potential and achieve your personal best.
For more information or personalized nutrition coaching, visit ghcscw.com.
We will implement holiday hours at our clinics and facilities in observance of Independence Day on Friday, July 4, 2025. Check out the upcoming holiday hours in the chart below:
Facility |
Friday, 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:
|
Closed |