State grant supports Gundersen Boscobel, rural healthcare access

Gundersen Boscobel Area Hospital and Clinics was among the first recipients of a state grant to improve care for patients in rural areas.

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) recently announced Gundersen Boscobel will receive $50,000 to support training along with improved access to care.

"This grant will provide Gundersen Boscobel the support and funds necessary to create an advanced practice clinician training program," says chief executive officer David Hartberg. "Rural areas are facing a shortage of healthcare professionals, and Gundersen Health System believes physician assistants (PA) and advanced practice registered nurses (APRN) can help meet the demand."

"Gundersen Boscobel providers will receive training to become adept preceptors, and a collaborative steering committee will develop rural clinical training experience for PAs and APRNs," Hartberg shares. "In partnership with the UW-La Crosse Physician Assistant program, University of Wisconsin School of Nursing, and other academic institutions, a structured program will be developed to prepare and inspire providers to consider a career in a rural setting."

The grant is part of $500,000 in new funding for rural healthcare approved in the 2017-2019 Wisconsin biennial budget.