Department of Health Services

Everyone Deserves Clean Water

Evers, Democrats back a comprehensive agenda. We want to work with Republicans on this.

Paging 402,000 People Lacking Health Care

Evers administration urges enrollment in state health insurance marketplace. You have until December 15.

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."

Lead Exposure Linked to Gun Violence

UWM study finds kids exposed to lead are more likely to later commit gun violence.

State Resists Immunizations

Wisconsin ranks 35th in percent of immunized children, yet bipartisan bill to address problem is stalled in committee.

Evers Pushes Action on Water Quality

After 13 public hearings across state, water quality policy proposals are being drafted.

State’s Meth Cases Up By 450%

Methamphetamine crisis quietly grows in Wisconsin while all attention on opioid epidemic.

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.

Police Seize Almost $1 Million From THC Vaping Operation

Department looking for a connection to the outbreak of vaping-related lung disease.

FDA Testing Vapes for Link to Lung Damage

The Wisconsin DHS is tracking 69 possible cases of vaping-related lung disease.

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.

Bipartisan Bill Would Legalize Medical Marijuana

But Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald strongly opposes the bill.

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.

Too Many Wisconsinites Without Health Insurance

Evers' Health Secretary funding effort to increase number of insured.

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.

77% Of E-Cigarette Illness Involved THC Cartridges

Federal officials say most cases involved THC cartridges, but still no information on what exactly is causing the damage.

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

Evers, Governors Push Congress on PFAS

15 governors call for tougher standards, more protections on PFAS chemicals.

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

Committee Approves Loans for Lead Laterals

$550,000 loan program for any resident, regardless of income, to replace lead laterals.

New Data Analysis Shows Impact of Suicide in Wisconsin

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

Vaping-Related Lung Diseases Surging

450 suspected cases of lung disease in 33 states, including 46 in Wisconsin.

More Could Lose SNAP Food Benefits

Study shows new proposal could cut off 18 percent of SNAP recipients in state.

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

Vaping-Related Diseases Traced to THC

State health officials warn against THC vaping products as state, national investigations grow.

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

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

Evers Expands Effort Against “Forever” Chemicals

Directs DNR to create standards for drinking, surface water on PFAS chemicals.

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

State Agencies Give Zero Days for Comment

Evers Administration uses lame duck law to make policy changes with no chance for public comments.

Mysterious Disease Caused By Vaping

State health officials confirm 12 cases of vaping-related lung disease.

DHS Takes Coordinated Approach to Dealing with Opioid Addiction

Treatment program will operate in two rural communities and one urban area.

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.

Evers Wants State Health “Lead Czar”

Also supports bill to provide $40 million in loans for home owners to replace lead laterals.

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."

City May Sue Opioid Manufacturers

Murphy wants city attorney to consider suit for damages from opioid epidemic.

25,000 Could Lose Food Share Benefits

Proposed change in federal SNAP program would cut off 25,000 state recipients.

Clean Drinking Water Effort Falls Short

$40 million state funding to replace lead laterals cut from budget by Republicans.

DNR Wants Local Tests for PFAS

Asks 125 wastewater treatment plants to test for chemicals linked to health problems.

New DNR Head Has Agenda of Change

Climate change, lead laterals and CAFO-polluted private wells are top concerns.

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."

New DNR Staff Will Probe Pollution

Added scientists will look at impact of “forever chemicals” contamination by Tyco company.

Bill Addresses “Staggering” Cost of Diabetes

Estimated $5.5 billion annual cost for state, 40% of residents projected to get disease.

Healthy Economy Buys New State Spending

Which helps explain budget victory being claimed by both parties.

What’s Happening With State’s Youth Prisons?

Three key developments affecting Wisconsin’s troubled youth correctional facilities.

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."

Evers Uses 78 Partial Vetoes on Budget

Vetoes will help pay for $65 million more in education funding in revised budget.

Under Evers, DNR Restores Science

New groundwater standards and science-based approaches to chemical pollution.

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."

Who Uses Cannabis in Wisconsin?

Interest in CBD and cannabis products is growing around the state

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.

Evers Seeks Ways to Expand Health Coverage

Governor wants to get more people insurance coverage beyond Medicaid expansion Republicans oppose.

Get Ready for Tuesday’s Healthcare Debate

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

State’s Drinking Culture Costs $6.8 Billion Per Year

Includes cost of legal expenses, traffic stops, medical costs, lost productivity.

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.”

Evers Will “Fight Like Hell” for Medicaid

Republicans will strip Medicaid expansion from budget. Poll showed 70% support Evers proposal.

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."

Walker’s Costly War on the Poor

Former governor’s “trampoline” for SNAP recipients is a high-cost failure, report finds

Bill Allows Pharmacists to Vaccinate Children

In reaction to measles outbreak, lawmakers look to strengthen state’s response.

Drug Take Back Day is April 27

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

Wind Project Whips Up Controversy

Some neighbors oppose 24 wind turbine proposal in Green County near state's border.

A Primer on Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Where to seek information, protection, testing and other resources.

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.

Republicans Call for Reset of Evers’ Budget

Governor’s cabinet members get hammered on many issues by GOP legislators.

Healthy Women, Healthy Babies Program Overdue

State’s black infant mortality rate is worst in the nation, this bill addresses problem.

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

March 22, 2019

6 Things to Know About Lincoln Hills

A primer on how state’s youth prisons will be changed. Or not.

Three Hospitals Offer 40 Recovery Coaches

Ascension hospitals have new way to treat opioid addiction.

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."