Department of Health Services

AG Kaul Hosts Policy Summit on Emergency Detention and Mental Health

Gov. Evers Announces Appointments to Governor’s Task Force on Reducing Prescription Drug Prices

The first meeting of the Governor’s Task Force on Reducing Prescription Drug Prices is scheduled for November 20.

Wisconsin Addiction Recovery Helpline Marks One Year of Service

Hotline connects callers to substance use treatment and recovery options

Wisconsin Natural Resources Board Taking More Steps to Protect Drinking Water

PFAS Rulemaking Process Moves Forward

Gov. Evers Announces Appointments to Governor’s Task Force on Retirement Security

"Everyone should have the opportunity to save for their future and no one should have to worry about making ends meet or their financial security in retirement."

Surface Water Sampling Reveals PFAS At Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport

As a result, DNR is asking airport and military officials to take steps to prevent future discharges of PFAS from the outfalls.

Gov. Evers Endorses Water Quality Recommendations from DNR, DATCP, DHS

“Folks should be able to trust the water coming from their tap”

Surface Water Sampling Reveals PFAS At Dane County Regional Airport

In a letter to Dane County Regional Airport on Oct. 11, the DNR informed airport officials that the sampling data indicates they are responsible for the discharge of a hazardous substance.

DNR’s First Round of Sampling Shows PFAS Contamination at Surface Water Monitoring Locations in Wisconsin

PFAS are a group of human-made chemicals used for decades in numerous products, such as non-stick cookware, fast food wrappers, stain-resistant sprays and firefighting foam.

Sen. Alberta Darling Plays Politics With Suicide Prevention Hotline

This is the second instance of Sen. Darling playing politics with funds available in the state budget to prevent suicides.

Governor Evers’ Administration Works to Get More Wisconsinites Covered

“Every Wisconsinite deserves access to affordable, quality health care and it’s time to work together to get folks covered,” said Governor Evers.

Wisconsin Celebrates Advances in Using Health Information Technology

Wisconsin ranked #2 nationwide in meaningful use of health technology

U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Calls for HELP Committee Hearing on Health Outbreak Connected to Vaping

"As of September 19, CDC had confirmed seven deaths, and more than 500 cases in 38 states and one territory, yet questions remain regarding the specific cause of the outbreak."

Governor Evers’ Task Force on Caregiving Holds First Meeting in Milwaukee

The 29-member group has goals to increase caregiver workforce, improve conditions for direct care workers, and provide support for family caregivers

Department of Health Services Teams with the Milwaukee Brewers to Promote Immunizations

Catchers Yasmani Grandal and Manny Pina star in Spanish language public service announcements

Treasurer Sarah Godlewski and Task Force Members Kick off Governor Evers’ Retirement Security Task Force Surrounded by Retirees and Stakeholders

By listening to people across Wisconsin, the Governor’s Task Force on Retirement Security will explore ways to ensure people can adequately save.

DHS Lead Abatement Program Receives Federal Approval

Efforts will improve housing conditions for low-income children and pregnant women

First Human Case of West Nile Virus Reported in Wisconsin This Year

Continue to protect yourself against mosquito bites

U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Urges CDC to Address Outbreak of Severe Lung Disease Connected to Vaping

Mystery illness has sickened hundreds of Americans, including more than 30 Wisconsinites

New Data Analysis Shows Impact of Suicide in Wisconsin

Wisconsin's updated suicide prevention plan will be released later this year

Wisconsin Department of Health Services Receives $1.8 million Grant to Expand Maternal Mortality Review Team Efforts

Goals include preventing pregnancy complications and death, and reducing disparities in health care

U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Announces Nearly $5.2 Million in Federal Funding to Reduce Opioid Overdoses in Wisconsin

Senator Baldwin worked to secure investment in Wisconsin prevention efforts

Majority of Wisconsin Lung Disease Patients Who Reported Vaping Cite THC Products

The investigation of lung disease among people who reported vaping is ongoing

Gov. Evers Directs DNR to Address PFAS Contamination in Drinking, Ground and Surface Waters

"I am committed to protecting our state's natural resources and ensuring every Wisconsinite has access to clean drinking water."

Gov. Evers Signs Executive Order #41 Recreating the Criminal Justice Coordinating Council

Gov. Evers Signs Executive Order #40 Relating to PFAS in Wisconsin

Executive Order #40 directs the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources to take additional steps to address PFAS contamination.

Gov. Evers Announces Appointments to Governor’s Task Force on Caregiving

"Caregivers provide critically important care and services, and it is essential that we recognize the important contributions these unsung heroes make to families in Wisconsin."

State Health Agency’s New Data Tool Shows a Decline in the Number of Opioid Deaths in Wisconsin

The 838 deaths reported in 2018 is a 10 percent reduction from the year before

Older Age Groups Now Included in Investigation of Lung Disease Among People Who Reported Vaping

These patients experienced shortness of breath, fatigue, chest pain, cough, and weight loss.

Gov. Evers’ Budget Gives Wisconsin Reason to Smile, $2 Million Will Expand Dental Services, $1 million for Free and Charitable Health Centers

"The health of our teeth can affect our overall well-being."

Gov. Evers Launches Back to School Health Resource for Parents

"A kid's ability to succeed in the classroom can be impacted by both their physical and mental health."

Rep. Robyn Vining Co-Sponsors NEW Medicaid Expansion Legislation

"Medicaid expansion is what the people want and it’s what they deserve."

New Cases Identified in Investigation of Lung Disease Among Teens and Young Adults Who Reported Vaping

DHS urges Wisconsinites to avoid vaping and e-cigarettes

Gov. Evers Announces Lower Rates on Wisconsin’s Individual Health Insurance Market

The rate decrease also highlights the positive impact of that the Wisconsin Healthcare Stability Plan, or the state’s reinsurance program, is having on the individual market.

Gov. Evers Signs Executive Order 36 Relating to Measures to Abate and Prevent Lead Exposure in Drinking Water

"Lead poisoning is a statewide risk not just in Kenosha and Milwaukee, but in communities around the state."

Gov. Evers Signs Bill to Reform Sign Language Interpreting Licensure System in Wisconsin

"We're working to ensure deaf and hard of hearing folks across our state have access to reliable and experienced interpreters no matter the situation or circumstance."

Majority Leader Fitzgerald Reacts to Governor Evers Signing the Wisconsin Budget

"I want to thank Governor Evers for signing the budget into law today, including fully embracing the middle-class tax cut."

First Mosquito Pool Tests Positive for West Nile Virus in the City of Milwaukee

Health officials remind residents to continue to take precautions into summer season

Republican Budget is Replete with Countless Missed Opportunities

"The budget passed today leaves much to be desired for the people of Wisconsin."

Department of Health Services, Department of Natural Resources, and Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection Work to Make Groundwater Cleaner

DHS Has Sent New Groundwater Recommendations to DNR

Analysis: Wisconsin Residents Will Pay More Than $2 Billion to Support Medicaid Expansion in Other States

Because Wisconsin has not expanded Medicaid, state residents experience no return on these investments.

Representative Hintz rolls out Website to Highlight Importance of Vaccine

"We need to do all we can to avoid a completely unnecessary outbreak in our state."

Gov. Evers Announces Appointment of Linda A. Hall as Director of the Office of Children’s Mental Health

Ms. Hall will begin as director of the Office of Children’s Mental Health on July 8, 2019.

AG Kaul Seeks Preliminary Injunction Against Trump Administration to Stop Health Care Discrimination

This motion is part of an ongoing lawsuit that the coalition of 23 cities and states filed against HHS in May 2019.

A day after gutting health care programs around the state, GOP criminalizes reproductive care

Democrats have introduced and promoted initiatives aimed at improving access to preventive care like basic health exams, cancer screenings, and STI testing.

Get Ready for Tuesday’s Healthcare Debate

WILL research on the cost of Evers' proposed plans, and common sense solutions.

Attorney General Kaul Files Lawsuit to Hold Purdue Pharma Accountable for Role in Opioid Crisis

After years of inaction by previous administration, Kaul and Evers take decisive steps

State Health Department Launches Campaign to Get More Wisconsin Children Immunized

“Immunizations are safe and effective and not only protect the child, but the people around that child, too.”

Gov. Evers and DHS Secretary-designee Palm Announce Community-Specific Data for DHS Budget Proposal

"My budget proposal draws down $1.6 billion in new federal funding into Wisconsin so we can improve healthcare in communities across the state."

Drug Take Back Day is April 27

"Through proper disposal, we can prevent prescription drugs from being diverted—and help prevent addiction."

Senator Erpenbach Applauds the SeniorCare Extension

"This is a huge win for our state."

DNR and DHS Work Together to Improve Water Quality in Wisconsin

This week the DNR worked with Department of Health Services to ask the health agency to review 40 contaminants for possible groundwater quality standards.

A statement from Alderman Terry L. Witkowski following the March 22 special Public Safety and Health Committee meeting

March 22, 2019

Include Children’s Immunizations on Your Spring Break Schedule

Vaccine preventable diseases can put the brakes on your spring break plans

Gov. Evers Advocates for Expanding Medicaid in Visits to Janesville, Beloit

"By expanding Medicaid in Wisconsin, our budget improves access to quality, affordable health care for people across our state."

JFC Democrats Baffled by Republican Objection to Reducing Childhood Lead Poisoning

With the federal matching rate at 94.56%, and hundreds of thousands of children facing exposure, the JFC Democratic members are outraged that the Republicans objected to the request.

Governor Evers Makes Historic Investments in Health Care Coverage and Access

“Governor Evers’ budget makes historic investments in the health and well-being of every Wisconsinite,” said Secretary Designee Palm.

Council Committee strongly backs creation of city Board of Health

The full Common Council is scheduled to take action on the legislation when it meets on Tuesday, February 5 at 9 a.m. in the third floor Council Chamber at City Hall, 200 E. Wells St.

DHS Asks FoodShare Members to Be Aware of March Benefit Letters

Automatically generated letters will say no benefits are available in March because of federal government shutdown

Wisconsin Food and Nutrition Programs Will Continue Despite Federal Government Shutdown

FoodShare members will receive their February benefits this month

Governor-elect Evers and Lt. Governor-elect Barnes Announce Cabinet Members

"This talented group of leaders will help our administration address the issues Wisconsin residents asked us to focus on."

Governor-elect Evers and Lt. Governor-elect Barnes Announce “What’s Best for Kids” Advisory Council

"I’ve said from the beginning that what’s best for our kids is what’s best for our state..."

Governor-elect Tony Evers and Lt. Governor-elect Mandela Barnes Announce Health Policy Advisory Council, Transition Staff Additions

"Expanding access to affordable health care for Wisconsin residents is a top priority for our administration."

Adult Smoking Hits a New Low in Wisconsin

Work is still needed to reduce tobacco use among some groups

4th Dimension Recovery Center Opens to Address Opioid Epidemic in Wisconsin

New Facility Provides Crucial Treatment Option in Midst of Opioid Crisis

Wisconsin Receives Approval for Governor Walker’s BadgerCare Plus Welfare Reform for Childless Adults

Final implementation of these policy changes is expected to be at least one year from approval.

#HopeActLiveWI: Wisconsin Awarded Nearly $3 Million to Combat Opioid Epidemic

DHS to distribute $1 million to local partners for local community projects

Wisconsin is Ready to Win the 21st Century: Tax Relief, Worker Training, Children’s Health Among Governor Walker’s Priorities in Next State Budget

Priorities included in state agency budget requests due today

First Human Case of West Nile Virus Reported in Wisconsin This Year

Health officials urge everyone to protect against mosquito bites

Tobacco is marketed more heavily in Milwaukee’s minority neighborhoods study finds

This study is the first to document the trend in Milwaukee.

First Death in Wisconsin Linked to Fake Weed

DHS continues to urge people to stop using synthetic cannabinoids

American Heart Association recognizes Sen. Alberta Darling with Friend of Heart award

Lawmaker recognized for efforts on dispatcher-assisted CPR, FoodShare incentives laws

Del Monte Vegetable Trays Pose Potential Health Risk

The investigation is ongoing.

Aldermen urge further interviews in Health Department investigation

News release from Alderman Bob Donovan and Alderman Mark A. Borkowski

After Securing Federal Investments, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin Announces Over $2.4 Million Awarded to Wisconsin Communities to Fight the Opioid Epidemic

Senator Baldwin worked to secure federal funding for local communities that invests in prevention, treatment and recovery

#FightheBite! DHS Encourages Residents to Take Action to Prevent Tick and Mosquito Bites

Both ticks and mosquitoes can transmit various illnesses.

Governor Walker: We are Getting Positive Things Done for the People of Wisconsin

Governor Walker and the Legislature delivered results for the people of Wisconsin during a historic session.

Governor Walker Signs Bills to Create and Expand Outdoor Recreation, Attract Talent to Wisconsin, and Improve Medical Assistance

93 bills signed into law at the Wisconsin State Capitol

Governor Walker Signs Wisconsin Works for Everyone Welfare Reform Plan

Welfare reform a key item on the Governor’s Ambitious Agenda for 2018

Combating the Opioid Crisis: Governor Walker Signs Bipartisan Bills on Opioids into Law

All 30 bills signed by the Governor were created as a part of the HOPE (Heroin, Opiate, Prevention, and Education) Agenda.

Marquette Physician Assistant program expanding to address provider shortage

Increased enrollment, new 44,000-square-foot building will help in-demand program grow

Dana Wachs Called on Gov. Walker and AG Schimel to Sue Big Pharma Over Misleading Opioid Marketing

"Wealthy drug companies have been peddling highly addictive painkillers for decades while telling Americans that they were safe. It’s about time they are held accountable for their lies."

Governor Walker Takes Additional Action to Fight Opioid Crisis

Wisconsin continues to lead the way forward

Wisconsin Works for Everyone: Governor Walker Calls for Special Session on Welfare Reform

"We want to remove barriers to work and make it easier to get a job, while making sure public assistance is available for those who truly need it."

Governor Walker Announces Plan to Provide a Long-Term Solution for Wisconsin’s Juvenile Corrections and Treatment Systems

"Republicans and Democrats alike agree this is the way forward to reform juvenile corrections..."

Sen. Carpenter Thanks DHS Secretary for SeniorCare Attempts, Looks Forward to 2018

"I look forward to finding even more common ground upon which to do the people’s business."

Wisconsin Works for Everyone: Governor Walker Approves Drug Screening Plan for Able-Bodied Adults in the FoodShare Employment and Training Program

Legislature to review proposal aimed at helping more people to get healthy, enter workforce

Milwaukee County Behavioral Health Division receives $2.6 Million to help families affected by the opioid epidemic

Family Drug Treatment Court and AODA residential and recovery services help reunite families affected by addiction

Wisconsin Women in Government Announces 2017-2018 Board of Directors and Leadership Team

WWIG is also pleased to announce its new leadership for this year's Board of Directors.

Governor Walker Announces Wisconsin Awarded More Than $15 Million to Fight Opioid Epidemic

$7.6 million federal grant approved for second year

One Step Closer to Tackling Wisconsin’s Lead Crisis

MADISON – The following is a statement from Senator Chris Larson regarding the Senate passage of Senate Bill 48: “Each of our neighbors deserve to live in a healthy, safe community. Lead pipes are an avoidable public illness that is quietly devastating Wisconsin neighborhoods. Over the past few decades there has been significant research revealing how devastatingly harmful lead exposure is for both children and adults. We must prioritize addressing and preventing lead poisoning in our children. “Tackling the threat of lead poisoning is a moral and economic imperative. According to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS), our state would save $7 billion if the threat of lead poisoning was eliminated. This includes savings in medical care, special education, and even crime reduction among adults and youth. “Today, the Senate took up a bipartisan bill (Senate Bill 48) that moves our state one small step towards addressing Wisconsin’s lead crisis. During the state budget debate last month, Senate Democrats fought for Wisconsin to take swift action by introducing a Lead Abatement Amendment, which would have committed the necessary funds to provide adequate relief to communities access the state, after Senate Bill 48 was stalled in committee for months. “I urge my Republican colleagues to continue the momentum and take immediate action to keep our kids safe from being further poisoned by lead. Among the available bills are Senate Bill 41, which would protect renters from lead poisoning, Senate Bill 141, which would give schools more flexibility to invest in lead abatement costs, Senate Joint Resolution 67, a bill to declare a Lead Poison Prevention Week in Wisconsin. “So far, despite the lead pipe crisis, none of these bills have even received a public hearing.”

Governor Walker Directs DHS to Increase Investment, Improve Access to Treatment for Mental Health, Substance Use Disorders

Behavioral health rate increase builds on historic efforts to address mental health needs and fight the opioid epidemic

First Lady Tonette Walker Hosts First Spouses in Milwaukee to Discuss Trauma-Informed Care

The two-day conference focuses on Trauma-Informed Care,

Governor Walker Appoints Andrew Hitt to Serve as Judicial Selection Advisory Committee Chair

Andrew Hitt currently serves as partner and chief operating officer of Michael Best Strategies, LLC, and senior counsel at Michael Best & Friedrich, LLP, where he is a senior member of the firm’s government and regulatory law team.

First Lady Tonette Walker Meets with Representative Mike Gallagher on Trauma-Informed Care

They also discussed House Resolution 443 (H. Res. 443), the first trauma-specific bill initiated in the House with bipartisan support.

Governor Walker Releases Statement on Public Hearing Relating to Drug Screening FSET Participants

Following the hearing, all public comments will be summarized and responded to in a Legislative Report.

Governor Walker Declares a State of Emergency for 17 Wisconsin Counties

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims of the flooding."

Fraud Prevention Efforts Reach Record-High Savings for Taxpayers

Office of Inspector General report shows taxpayer savings from fighting fraud in public assistance programs top $51 million in 2016

H.O.P.E. for Wisconsin: Governor Walker Signs Four Special Session Bills into Law at Medical College of Wisconsin – Green Bay

"Like many states in our great nation, Wisconsin is experiencing a dangerous trend – a growing number of cases of opioid abuse and overdose."

Governor Walker Surveys Flood Damage, Declares State of Emergency

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims of the flooding.”