July 30, 2008                                                                                                                                 

 

Department of Health Services Introduces New Health Care Facility Website and Toll-Free Hotline

Kreitlow supports improved access to health care facility information

(Madison) The Department of Health Services has launched a new toll-free hotline and website to make it easier to report and obtain information on Wisconsin health care facilities. The hotline provides information on nursing homes, assisted living facilities and other health or hospice agencies. Individuals can report complaints or concerns by phone or on the website homepage.

The toll-free number can be reached at 1-800-642-6552 and the website is http://dhs.wisconsin.gov/.

“Disclosure is key in keeping our health care facilities accountable to consumers here in Wisconsin.   The feedback from the public through this website and this hotline will make it easier for people to access health information and make informed decisions about the care they need,” said Senator Pat Kreitlow (D-Chippewa Falls).

Wisconsin residents can use the hotline to learn more about local home health care agencies, agency certification, results of state inspection, and complaints filed against the agency in the last two years.

“I encourage residents to take advantage of these two new resources so Wisconsin health care facilities can continue to meet health needs with quality care,” said Kreitlow.

Senator Kreitlow can be reached toll free at 1-888-437-9436, by fax at 1-608-267-6794 or by email at sen.kreitlow@legis.wisconsin.gov.