DHS announces funding to be used for various rural health programs

The recently announced funding for the Wisconsin Department of Health Services through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services will be used to create a stronger and more accessible health care system in rural communities throughout Wisconsin. According to a release from the DHS, 40 of Wisconsin’s 72 counties are designated as mental health professional shortage areas, 37 as primary care shortage areas, and 34 as dental care shortage areas. The almost $204 million will support grants for workforce projects in rural communities, upgrades for rural provider systems, a program or rural regions to create coordinated care systems. More information about the program can be found on the DHS website.