Family Care Reports Progress, Profit
July 2011 Press Release
Family Care, the state program that funds long-term care services for the elderly and those with disabilities, is “modestly” in the black, according to a state financial report for the first quarter of 2011 issued by the Department of Health Services (DHS) the end of June.
Eight out of the nine managed care organizations (MCOs) delivering Family Care statewide are experiencing, or about to experience, surpluses. During the same time period in 2010, only four MCOs reported surpluses.
One of those MCOs with a budget surplus for first quarter 2011 is NorthernBridges, which serves 11 northwestern Wisconsin counties. Just starting its third year of operations, NorthernBridges is the youngest of all the MCOs.
Historically, Family Care service costs generally decrease over time reflecting the Family Care model of cost-effective, member-centered care planning.
“We feel we are right on track with state expectations that it takes 3-5 years for a new MCO to become financially stable,” said John T. McMahon, NorthernBridges’ CEO. “We did run a deficit in 2009 and 2010, but fully expect this first quarter surplus trend to continue.” NorthernBridges first quarter net surplus was $595,003.
DHS reported that the cost to administer the program statewide decreased by 20.7% over the same period in 2010. NorthernBridges continued to hold its administrative costs below 5 percent, under the state’s benchmark of 5.7 percent.
“The majority of our revenue, over 90%, is spent on supporting our members,” said McMahon. “The rest is put toward our risk reserve and solvency funds, which are contractually required by DHS and the Officer of the Commissioner of Insurance, who issues permits to MCO’s to operate.”
How the recently passed state budget, which caps Family Care and other long-term care program enrollments to people participating in these programs as of June 30, 2011, will affect NorthernBridges’ bottom line is, “the big unknown,” said McMahon. “We hope to maintain our enrollment or close to it, but as membership declines we will be increasingly challenged to manage costs.”
Enrollment in all Family Care programs has been stopped until 2013. New members may be added, but only when someone leaves the program or dies.
“The enrollment cap could actually drive costs up,” said McMahon, “as those we get off wait lists will probably tend to be most in need and, therefore, the most costly. Also, some who can’t get into Family Care may have to choose nursing home care if they can’t access services or supports to remain at home.
McMahon stressed that the enrollment cap will not affect services to members. The benefit package and level of services will stay the same for present and new members.
Currently, NorthernBridgs serves 2106 members. Since 2009, over 900 people have been taken off county waiting lists, while up to 600 continue to wait for care.
“The coming year definitely presents new challenges,” said McMahon, ”but the good news is that Family Care is doing well and NorthernBridges is doing even better.”
Corty Named To Board of Directors
June 2011 Press Release
Jane Corty has been appointed to fill a Consumer Directorship seat on the Northwest Long-Term Care District (NW-LTCD) Board of Directors. The NW-LTCD board oversees NorthernBridges, a publicly funded managed-care organization bringing the state’s Family Care benefit to northwest Wisconsin. Family Care is a long-term care program for low-income frail elderly and adults with physical and developmental disabilities to help them live in their own homes or communities.
“I worked as a certified nurses’ assistant in a hospital and nursing home setting for over 10 years," said Corty. "It is my heart’s desire that people with disabilities have a life full of the same choices and opportunities that those without disabilities have and to experience lives without unnecessary limits. And to their families, I’d like to give hope and a peaceful confidence that our society values and treasures their loved ones. Serving on the Board of NorthernBridges is a way for me to make a positive difference.”
Corty is presently office manager of Trinity Lutheran Church in Falun. She has been a member of the Board of Education of Trinity Lutheran and has been involved in community projects through the Grantsburg American Legion, Red Cross Blood Bank, and the Grantsburg library and middle school.
The NW-LTC board is represented by 5 consumer representatives, 2 at-large directors, and county board members from the 11 counties it serves: Ashland, Barron, Burnett, Bayfield, Douglas, Iron, Polk, Price, Rusk, Sawyer, Washburn.
Board meetings are open to the public and held at 9:00 a.m. the first Monday of every month at the Flat Creek Inn in Hayward.
Family Care Helps Members Direct Their Own Care
May 2011 Press Release
Heather Wade, left, and her mother Mary Wade chose an option in the Family Care program called Self-Directed Supports. It is offered by NorthernBridges as a way for members and their families to be more involved in the direction of their own services.
The Wade family knows all too well how a single moment can change every moment that follows. Seventeen years ago their daughter Heather, then 21 years old, made the wrong choice to drive after drinking and without a seatbelt. Though not going fast, she rolled her truck. The head injuries she sustained caused her permanent short-term memory loss and other physical disabilities so severe she requires 24-hour-a-day care.
“The decisions you make do not just affect you,” said Heather’s mother Mary Wade. “That is the message I tried to give young people over the years when I would take Heather and go to talk at schools and to other groups.”
So many things changed. Heather’s three sisters forever lost the sister they knew. Heather would never marry her fiancé. Heather’s 3-year-old son would grow up not knowing the mother the accident stole away. Heather’s mother and father would raise that son into a young man soon be awarded a Purple Heart for his heroism in Afghanistan. A proud moment difficult for Heather to fully retain or share with the family.
Though everything changed for Heather, life still goes on. A life that requires much support from her family and care services she now receives through Family Care, a State of Wisconsin program enabling elderly and disabled members to stay in their own homes and communities and out of more costly care facilities. The program is delivered through NorthernBridges, a publicly owned managed-care organization that contracts with providers for services that support members in living as independently as possible.
Family Care puts members at the center of a team that includes two care managers--one a nurse and the other a social worker--along with any other family or friends the member chooses. One option in Family Care is called Self-Directed Supports, or SDS, that offers a variety of ways for members or their guardians to be more in charge of their own services including hiring their own direct care workers.
“I guess I like to be in control,” said Mary with a laugh. She is used to running things. Mary and her husband, Greg, have owned a successful store in Danbury for many years.
The SDS option turned out to be a lifesaver for the Wades when the business that arranged for workers for Heather and room and board for the assisted living rental apartment she had lived in for 14 years decided not to continue those services.
“It was a stressful time,” said Mary. The Wade’s worked closely with their NorthernBridges Social Services Care Manager Joann Phernetton and came up with a plan involving self-directed supports.
“It allowed us to independently hire the same workers Heather already had,” said Mary. “We also now directly pay for the rent of her apartment, which is cheaper than paying the room and board through the other business. We are able to manage the home on less money, which greatly helps with the budget.”
Mary thought the Family Care version of Self-Directed Supports was the best fit for them. “I like having control, but I also like having the care management oversight from NorthernBridges and Joann that others did not offer.”
Heather was able to remain in the home she has known for so many years with a staff that has become more like family than care workers. There was no confusion that a change of residence or staff would have caused for her. Better still, there was a consistency in her life so necessary for Heather.
One thing Heather did not lose in the accident was her sense of humor and a natural vivaciousness that shines in her smile. She welcomes guests to her apartment with ease, but may have to ask many times during their stay who they are. But as they leave, there is one thing she makes sure to remind them. “Remember to wear your seatbelt.”
Three New Members Appointed to Board
April 2011 Press Release
Three new members have been appointed to fill Consumer Directorship seats on the Northwest Long-Term Care District (NW-LTCD) Board of Directors. The NW-LTCD board oversees NorthernBridges, a publicly funded managed-care organization bringing the state’s Family Care benefit to northwest Wisconsin.
Joe Wolf
Wolf
is currently the Secretary of the Flambeau Hospital Board of Directors. He has also served as president of the Phillips Chamber of Commerce and as a member of the Phillips Lions Club and Shawano County Economic Progress, Inc. In 2007, he retired from his position as bank manager in Phillips after over 30 years in the banking business
Wolf will serve a two-year term on the NW-LTCD/NorthernBridges board as a consumer representative for those with physical disabilities
“The goal of assisting people in need is important to me, said Wolf. “I feel that with my past business background coupled with the challenges I face with my disability, I can add value to the NorthernBridges Board of Directors.
Beth Meyers
Meyers, a fourth-generation Bayfield resident and business owner, was elected to the Bayfield County Board in 2010. She has also served on the boards for the State of Wisconsin Economic Support Programs Advisory Committee, the Apostle Islands Area Community Fund, and is a past president of a Toastmaster’s Club
In addition, while employed by the Red Cliff Tribe, she was instrumental in establishing the Family Services Advisory Committee and Child Protection Team and facilitates the Senior Advisory Committee of CORE Community Resources.
“I have spent over 20 years helping people, starting with my career as a Child Care Director to my current position as an Executive Director serving seniors,” said Meyers. “This is a perfect relationship between my job at CORE Community Resources, where we serve seniors, and the fact that we are all aging.
Meyers will serve a three-year term on the NW-LTCD/ Northern-Bridges board as a consumer representative for the elderly.
“My mother is 75 and is still in the house she has lived in for over 50 years,” Meyers said. “It makes sense to work within your community to ensure services are in place not just for the elderly, but for those with physical and developmental disabilities. I have always been most happy when I’m working for those who need a helping hand.”
Steven "Fluffy" Sather
Sather has been on the Washburn County Board for 19 years and is now in his first term as Washburn County Board Chair.
As a NW-LTC/NorthernBridges’ board member, Sather replaces Don Quinton as Washburn County’s representative. “I did a little research on what NorthernBridges does and the people it serves and decided to volunteer,” said Sather.
It is a requirement that the NW-LTC/NorthernBridges’ board be made up of one county board member from each of the 11 counties it serves: Ashland, Barron, Burnett, Bayfield, Douglas, Iron, Polk, Price, Rusk, Sawyer, and Washburn. Five consumer representatives and 2 at-large directors fill out the rest of the board membership.
Board meetings are open to the public and held at 9:00 a.m. the first Monday of every month at the Flat Creek Inn in Hayward. More information about NorthernBridges, its board, or the Family Care program can be found at www.northernbridges.com
Teamwork and Technology Help Stroke Survivor
March 2011 Press Release
Once the owner of his own construction business, Rich Albano needed only a pencil, paper and ruler to figure out all he needed to build an entire house.
“That’s the way his father taught him,” said his wife Judy Albano. “He didn’t need a computer.”
Two years after a stroke, Rich needs a computer today to speak for him. He touches a picture on the screen and an electronic voice asks for breakfast. He touches another and a big smile flashes over his face as the voice proclaims, “The Green Bay Packers are Super Bowl champs.”
While lucky to survive his stroke, the 63-year-old Gordon resident may be even luckier to have the right team of professionals to support him.
Rich Albano and his speach therapist Betsy Salquist
Rich is a member of NorthernBridges, a publicly funded managed-care organization that helps seniors and adults with physical or developmental disabilities live as independently and cost effectively as possible in their own homes or other residential settings such as group homes. NorthernBridges does this by contracting with local providers for care services such as medical care and transportation, housekeeping, or personal care.
More than a year after his initial therapy in the hospital and a nursing home stay, it appeared Rich’s recovery had gone as far as it could go. Judy believed his comprehension was no more than that of young child. He could not be left alone at home and required full-time home care services when Judy was at work.
But last year Rich’s NorthernBridges care team, which includes a nurse and social worker, thought there was a chance his future might hold something more.
“We were a fresh set of eyes,” said Pat Olson, a NorthernBridges’ registered nurse. “Helping members become more independent and live the best lives possible is our job. We felt Rich might benefit from an assessment by a speech therapist. We are just thrilled at how far it looks like he will be able to come.”
The assessment found that Rich’s level of comprehension far exceeded his verbal skills and current mode of communication which had been simply "yes" or "no."
“It is common for a stroke on the left side of the brain to affect the speech and communication center,” said Betsy Salquist, Rich’s speech therapist at the Spooner Health System. “This is called aphasia. What we initially try to do is train the good part of the brain to do what the damaged part used to do. In some cases, speech doesn’t return as we would hope and we need to consider alternative communication.”
In Rich’s case, that requires working with a computer speech device called a Dynavox. It is programmed to relate simple needs and wants and other conversation when he touches the appropriate button. Another program prompts him to practice and verbalize words as he watches on the screen how the lips form words.
“One thing that is key for Rich’s independence is for him to use the phone in case of an emergency,” said Salquist. “His Dynavox device hooks up to the phone so he can easily dial his wife or 911 by pushing a single button.”
Salquist says aphasia usually makes someone who has had a stroke feel isolated, as if their brain is holding their words hostage. She runs a support group for those with aphasia from head injury, stroke, or other illnesses.
“They need social support,” said Salquist. “People with aphasia are sometimes embarrassed to talk to others, but feel supported by those who understand what they are going through. My best advice to them is never give up and practice a little bit every day. Recovery sometimes occurs in baby steps. Allow yourself to get up and go to church or let a friend come over or go to a support group. If you keep yourself sheltered and isolated you are less likely to get better.”
Rich’s therapy is not all about communication. With the help of an occupational therapist, Rich is learning to prepare a simple meal and do other personal cares that increase his ability to be more independent at home.
“Rich is incredibly motivated to get better with his walking, self cares, and communication,” said Salquist. “He wants to become more independent in his hobbies and social life. By far the patients who not only have the motivation but also support of family and services are the ones who we see have the most success."
Since they met in college over 30 years ago, Rich’s biggest supporter has been his wife Judy. On a therapy visit last month, Salquist helped Rich program a special computer message for Judy that she hasn’t heard since his stroke. It was a Valentine’s Day message that said, “I love you sweetheart.”
My Life Story
February 2011 Press Release
Editor’s note: Joshua Carbon is a member of NorthernBridges, a managed care organization that helps low-income seniors and adults with physical or developmental disabilities live as independently as possible in their own homes or other residential settings. NorthernBridges contracts with local providers for care services for its members.
Currently, NorthernBridges provides for Josh, who has a developmental disability, to live in a rented house and receive twice daily assistance in making meals, housekeeping, grocery shopping and monitoring his medications. He is beginning supported employment, which involves working in a structured environment, such as volunteer work, to prepare for other jobs. Since Josh has shown an interest in continued education, NorthernBridges will help coordinate services needed to work toward his GED.
Submitted, in his own words, by Joshua Carbon
As a child I had a rough life. I was picked on and bullied in school. I was ridiculed and abused. Today I was given a chance to live out my life with some supports. I have friends and family that live close by.
I’m enjoying my life being independent. Yes I have had ups and downs when I first moved back to my hometown, but that’s the past and I’m in the now. Its been 10 months and I’ve made some improvements with help from New Horizons North and NorthernBridges.
I have a Guardian who cares about me and loves me a lot. My Father works hard to come visit me. I have a Significant other I love and care about. My Life I’m Living is a reward for me since we only get one life. I begged and pleaded with people to help me live independently they listened and look at me now. I live with two other gentlemen in a semi-Independent living arrangement made possible by NorthernBridges, Ashland County, And New Horizons North. I have supports through New Horizons 5 days a week, and I meet With My NorthernBridges Care manager as needed or every 6 months.
I am Thankful That I am Living Independently. My Schedule Consists Of Daily Chores, Weekly Chores, Going for walks, Visiting Friends and family whenever I want, Cooking twice a week for me and my roommates, and I have A Volunteer job thru the City Police Dept. Making sure the parks stay clean, and Safe. I also volunteer thru Faith in Action Network Ashland County, and at the Memorial Medical Center Thrift Shop.
I have it made here in my hometown; I have come a long ways from being in group homes most of my life to living independently. Before I came back to Ashland I was working and living in Hurley Wisconsin 10 1⁄2 Yrs. Then decided to move back to Ashland (My Hometown). The End.
County Wait Lists for Family Care Cut In Half
January 2011 Press Release
The number of elderly and those with disabilities on county waiting lists for Family Care services has been cut by over half since NorthernBridges began delivering the benefit to northwest Wisconsin 19 months ago.
“We are right on schedule to eliminate wait lists in the 11 counties we serve by 2012,” said NorthernBridges’ CEO John T. McMahon. “One of the goals of the state’s Family Care program is that those who qualify for services will not have to wait, sometimes for years, to get the help they need. NorthernBridges’ goal is to do that within three years of opening and I believe we are well on the way to achieving that goal.”
Those on wait lists totaled 1,193 when NorthernBridges opened its regional hub offices in the spring and summer of 2009. Since then, over 615 people have been taken off the lists.
“We work in partnership with the county Aging and Disability Resource Centers that manage the wait lists,” said Nancy Brede, NorthernBridges’ Director of Care Management. “We average about 31 off the wait list every month.”
Family Care helps low-income seniors and adults with physical and developmental disabilities remain in their own homes or other community settings such as group homes. Wisconsin pioneered Family Care to fight rising long-term care costs and rescue over 11,000 people statewide who had been on waiting lists for long-term care.
NorthernBridges contracts with local providers to deliver services that members need to remain as independent as possible. Such services include help with meals, housekeeping, or medical care.
“One of the first members I worked with had been on the wait list for 8 years,” remembered Grace Burkinshaw, a registered nurse and NorthernBridges Resource Center manager. “People manage the best they can while they wait, but this woman was literally crawling to the bathroom. People on the wait lists have a higher incidence of emergency hospital visits and health issues. Along with improving their health and quality of life, it is actually cost-effective to help them get services and off the wait list.”
By their sheer numbers, aging babyboomers will strain health care budgets in all states for the next two decades. In Wisconsin, it is hoped that Family Care is the answer to maintaining and managing those long-term health care costs.
“With each person taken off the wait list, we are nearer the time when wait lists no longer exist,” said McMahon, “and we manage our resources wisely enough to help all those in our communities who truly need our help.”
To become a member of NorthernBridges, people must first contact their county Aging and Disability Resource Center or ADRC.
Health Screening a Lifesaver for Sister and Brother
December 2010 Press Release
 Therese and Jeff Creuzer
With her easy smile and ready sense of humor, you would never guess what a tough year it’s been for Therese Creuzer.
It started on a high note for the Luck woman, who has a developmental disability. After being on a county wait list for services, she was able to join NorthernBridges, the new publicly funded managed care organization bringing the state’s Family Care benefit to northwest Wisconsin.
It was during the initial NorthernBridges health screen questions, that the care manager discovered a problem.
“She hadn’t told anyone about some rectal bleeding she’d been having,” said Maggie Piehowski, a registered nurse care manager. “We immediately got her to a doctor. They found she had colon cancer.”
Therese had surgery then struggled with an infection that put her in a nursing home for a time last summer. “It was no picnic,” she said with a smile.
“She’s one tough German,” said her brother Jeff Creuzer. “She went through a lot.”
Because colorectal cancer runs in families, the doctors advised Jeff to have a colonoscopy, an outpatient procedure recommended for everyone over 50. A scope is used to detect abnormal growths and look for early signs of cancer.
“They found what the doctor said was the biggest polyp he’s ever removed,” said Jeff. “Another five months and he said I would have been full of cancer.”
Today both brother and sister are doing well. Therese is taking a new type of chemotherapy pill with fewer bad side effects. “Hopefully, I won’t go bald,” she laughs.
Therese lives in the home her parents built in 1957 from the lumber on the surrounding land. She is able to remain at home with the help of NorthernBridges, which contracts with local providers to bring people such services as housekeeping, meals, bathing and transportation. Therese’s services include some weekly help with personal cares and the use of a Lifeline emergency communication device. She also works twice a week at a sheltered workshop in Centuria.
The cost savings from helping people stay at home, rather than in more expensive care facilities, and careful management of services over 11 counties is making it possible for people like Therese to come off waiting lists and live more healthy and productive lives.
“It is a happy ending,” said Piehowski. “We have 350 questions to ask in the health screening, and it took just one to be a lifesaving one. Pretty amazing.”
“I tell everyone to get tested,” said Jeff. “It’s one of the most curable cancers if you catch it early. I have a brand new granddaughter and that kind of changed everything for me. I want to be around for awhile.”
To become a NorthernBridges member, people must first visit their county Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC). The ADRC will determine if individuals are eligible for Family Care or a variety of other support services.
To contact the Burnett/Polk and St. Croix Tribe ADRC in Balsam Lake, call 715-485-8449 or, toll free, 877-485-2372. To find out more about NorthernBridges and its hub office in Centuria, go to www.northernbridges.com.
Handicap Doesn’t Slow Solon Springs Businessman
November 2010 Press Release
Robert Sullivan never seems to stop moving. This surprises some because Sullivan has had to use a wheelchair since he injured his spinal cord in a motorcycle accident 17 years ago.
“When my customers first see me they ask where my helper is,” said Sullivan. His customers ask because they, too, are in wheelchairs. Sullivan repairs wheelchairs, scooters, lifts, ramps, steering devices and does handicap vehicle conversions.
Robert and Kathy Sullivan
“Pretty much I can make anyone mobile,” says Sullivan. “Some of my customers are elderly or have multiple sclerosis. I know how it is to rely on a wheelchair for mobility.”
Sullivan does have helpers. His wife Kathy handles the business paperwork and his son helps when needed with the larger work, such as installing lifts in vehicles. But most of the time, Robert is on the road by himself covering a wide area from Hibbing, Minnesota to Houghton, Michigan, to Ashland, Hayward and down to Rice Lake.
If not for Sullivan, the only other alternative for his customers would be to bring or ship their equipment to a medical supply store. A hardship for many.
It is not only his customers who appreciate his willingness to travel the northland’s rural roads. NorthernBridges, a managed care business that serves low-income elderly and those with disabilities, hires Sullivan as one of its providers.
“Robert is very dependable and responsive,” said Anita Dugan, NorthernBridges Care Manager. “We’ve had members who have had safety issues with wheelchair brakes and he goes out that day to take care of it. His actions reflect his high integrity. There have been times he did not charge mileage because he was already in the area. He understands how important it is for us to be as cost-effective as possible for our members so we can serve as many people as possible. Robert and Kathy truly represent NorhernBridges’ values.”
Sullivan’s garage-turned-workshop is filled with parts, batteries, and miscellaneous equipment that might look like junk to the untrained eye. One piece of metal is actually a small ramp he had custom built for a customer to navigate over a door threshold.
“When I am at a customer’s home I can make suggestions as to how to make the house better for them,” said Sullivan. “For instance, you can only buy very large ramps so I buy steel in Duluth for the material then bring it to a fabricators where they cut it to my measurements. These are simple things that make a big difference to someone in a wheelchair.”
Sullivan has also stockpiled used wheelchairs and parts people have donated that he loans out or gives away. “Sometimes, a family will give back a chair when it’s no longer needed so it can be used again,” he said.
Once a week, Sullivan finds time to work with physical therapy students at Lake Superior College. They learn something from him and he gets a work out. “It’s a lot of work but with the help of special braces, I can walk about 300 feet in 15 minutes,” he said.
At one time, Robert Sullivan built his own home, hunted, fished, and skied. After his accident, he spent 3 years in a body cast, lost sight in one eye and had to relearn almost everything. He still lives with daily pain. Why didn’t he give in to depression and self-pity?
“I didn’t want my kids to see me like that, said Sullivan. I didn’t want to focus on what I couldn’t do, but on what I could do.”
“He tells this to clients and because of his situation, it works,” said Kathy.
“Everything happens for a reason,” said Sullivan. “You can’t let your handicap disable you.”
Those interested in donating wheelchairs or other equipment or parts can call Sullivan Systems at 715-375-2579.
Bruce Resident Gets Help to Heat Home
November 2010 Press Release
With winter on her doorstep, 90-year-old Esther Schott was worried. After repeated tries, a repairman said her furnace could not be repaired. “I would lay awake at night and listen for it to try to go on,” she said. “Sometimes it would and sometimes it wouldn’t. Finally, it didn’t work at all.”
For three weeks Esther had no heat, other than space heaters, and no idea how she could afford a new furnace. Her son, Richard Schott, decided to call NorthernBridges.
Esther Schott and her son Richard Schott.
Esther is a member of NorthenBridges, the publicly funded care organization delivering the State’s Family Care program to 11 northwest Wisconsin counties. Family Care helps seniors and people with disabilities stay in their own homes or other community settings. To do this, NorthernBridges contracts with local providers for services such as help with meals, transportation, or bathing and relies on volunteer support as well. Esther receives help with housekeeping and shopping.
Richard contacted Jacky Helgeson, his mother’s care manager from NorthernBridges.
“Jacky is my hero,” said Richard with a smile. “When we have a problem, we call Jacky and she gets it solved.”
Jacky had heard that the Lennox Company was giving a new high-efficiency furnace, including free installation, to one lucky resident in each Wisconsin county. With just one week to spare before the deadline, Jacky applied. Esther was selected as the Rusk County recipient.
“When she called to let me know, she was giggling,” said Jacky. “It was wonderful. We felt like we had won the lottery.”
“I was so happy,” said Esther. “The men who installed it were from Hovland’s Lennox dealership in Chippewa Falls. They volunteered their time after their work day. They did such a good job. They even found a problem with the gas line going to the furnace and fixed that. They worked so hard and so late, I made them sandwiches.”
Esther is no stranger to hard work. She and her husband were dairy farmers on the land that surrounds her today. “I milked 39 head twice a day,” she recalled. “I really enjoyed it.”
Esther is now resting a little easier in the cozy farmhouse she has called home for 60 years. “I don’t have to worry about whether or not I’ll have heat,” she said. “The new furnace is wonderful.”
Surveys Say Members Satisfied With Family Care
September 2010 Press Release
Surveys done by the State of Wisconsin and NorthernBridges show that a large majority of members served by the Family Care long-term care program are very satisfied with their care.
“I was happy to see our survey numbers right in line with the high level of member satisfaction that other Family Care organizations around the state are reporting,” said John T. McMahon, NorthernBridges CEO, “particularly because we are a new organization in our first year of operation. Our board of directors is also pleased and views this as an endorsement of the program and the positive partnerships between members and NorthernBridges.”
NorthernBridges is a publicly funded organization created to bring Family Care to 11 northwest Wisconsin counties. NorthernBridges helps low-income seniors and adults with disabilities stay in their own homes, or other community settings such as group homes, by contracting with local providers for cost-effective care services.
“We used the same core questions used by the state,” said Grace Burkinshaw, NorthernBridges’ Quality Manager. “We conducted the survey in July 2010 using a random sample of 418 members representing the three groups we serve, which are frail elders and adults with physical and developmental disabilities. We had a response rate of over 43.8 percent, which exceeded the 40.1 percent statewide response.”
Questions covered members’ satisfaction with their care teams, participation in planning and decision-making about services, and communication quality.
Some of the highest levels of positive ratings (ranked as “always” or “most of the time”) were:
--“I am satisfied with the work that my care manager and nurse (or team) does for me.” (90%)
--“I participate in making decisions about the services I receive.” (90%)
--“I am comfortable with the people who help with my personal care.” (93%)
Click here for table of survey questions & answers.
Because the state has found some correlation between rapid expansion and lower satisfaction ratings, McMahon was gratified by NorthernBridges’ survey results.
“In our first year, we transferred 1792 people from the county waiver programs and took 367 off the wait lists, “said McMahon. “Such an accelerated pace has caused many changes and challenges for members, providers, and our employees. To see such positive member satisfaction, only gives us more incentive to keep improving.”
Family Care currently serves nearly 32,000 people in 53 counties, or 68% of the state. Remaining counties are now in the planning stages to provide Family Care services statewide by 2013.
To become a member of NorthernBridges, people must first contact their county Aging and Disability Resource Center or ADRC.
Family Care Helps Couple Give Back to Community
August 2010 Press Release
The Dehmlow family was eager to move back to Park Falls three years ago to answer a “calling” close to their hearts. “We’ve been called to youth ministry,” explained Brad Dehmlow who, for many years, worked as news director and disc jockey at a Park Falls’ radio station.
Brad and his wife, Nancy Dehmlow, run a teen youth center in Park Falls. On Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights as many as 200 kids might be there to see a Christian-based band or, on quieter nights, smaller groups play video games, watch big screen T.V. or go skateboarding.
“We are non-denominational and strictly supported by the community,” explained Nancy Dehmlow. “We give kids a safe place to come.”
But while the Dehmlows were helping other kids, their 25-year-old son Robby, who has a developmental disability, was unable to get the county services he needed. Robby was put on a wait list for what was expected to be up to seven years because the county had reached its limit for the number of
people it could afford to help.
“It was kind of discouraging to hear,” said Brad. “It’s a lot of hard work having a son with developmental disabilities. It’s a 24/7 job, which is very hard on us and the other children in the family.”
The Dehmlow’s situation changed for the better
with the start of the state’s Family Care program in Price County last year. Family Care helps seniors
Robby Dehmlow
and adults with physical and developmental disabilities stay in their own homes or other residential settings such as group homes.The cost savings from helping people stay at home, rather than in more expensive care facilities, and careful management of services over 11 counties is making it possible for people like Robby to come off the waiting lists. By 2013, the lists will disappear altogether.
This past May, Robby became a member of NorthernBridges. The family met with NorthernBridges Care Managers Kim Bortz, a registered nurse, and Sherrie Vaughn, a social worker. Together, with Robby as the center of the team, they determined his goals and the services he would need to achieve them, which included transportation and some home supportive care.
“Robby’s biggest goal was to get out of the house and have his own independent life and feel like he is accomplishing something,” said Brad.
Robby now attends the Counseling and Development Center in Phillips 5 days a week. The center offers a structured environment where members who have the abilities, can do piece work for different businesses in the area that contract with the center. But members get more than a paycheck.
“With Rob’s handicap, if he goes into depression, behavioral issues come up,” said Nancy. “He can’t verbalize his frustrations so he acts them out. Watching him on a daily basis go downhill was tough. Since he started working at the development center, the change has been dramatic. He gets up in the morning and is excited for the day to come.”
The change was just as dramatic for the family.
The Dehmlows now feel they have the support they need to live their lives, which includes a change of career for Brad who is studying to be a nurse.
“We feel more like a family,” said Brad. “Financially, we can both work now. Physically, we could not continue to do this by ourselves. Without help, there is no way to work a job and take care of this child at the same time. This extends what we could do for Robby and brings him to a level we could not help him reach on our own.”
To become a NorthernBridges member, people must first visit their county Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC). The ADRC will determine if individuals are eligible for Family Care or a variety of other support services.
Long Wait Over for Mother and Son
June 2010 Press Release
After her fair share of rain, Ruth Ritter of Ashland says she is finally seeing rainbows. For more than 15 years, her son Fred, who has a developmental disability, was on a county waiting list for long-term care services. This year, she finally got the call that the long wait was over.
“I am beyond the rainbow,” said Ritter. “NorthernBridges and the Family Care program is a dream come true for me.”
Fred and Ruth Ritter
Wisconsin developed Family Care to be a more cost-effective way to help low-income seniors and adults with developmental and physical disabilities get the health and support services they needed to stay in their own homes or other community settings such as group homes.
NorthernBridges is a publicly funded organization created to bring Family Care to Ashland and 10 other northwest Wisconsin counties. Its social workers and nurses team with members to determine their needs and goals. NorthernBridges then contracts with local providers to help meet those needs with services such as medical transportation, housekeeping, bathing, skills training and supportive employment.
Family Care replaces Medicaid waiver programs once administered by the counties.
“When I first contacted the county for help, they said it would be 20 years or more before Fred would get off the wait list,” said Ritter. “It was pretty discouraging, but that was the system then.”
Ritter said she never heard another word except for yearly letters that asked if she wished to keep Fred on the waiting list. She cared for Fred alone after her husband, a minister, died of complications due to diabetes a few years after moving the family to Ashland in 1994.
“I started a consignment business in the mini mall and tried to job coach Fred myself,” said Ritter, but I was always worrying when I had to leave him at home.”
That worry was compounded in 2001 when Ritter was hit by a drunk driver and almost killed. “That’s when Fred and I had the ‘what if’ talk,” said Ritter. “What if someday I am not around? Someday I won’t be. I had no one to cover my flank. Now I feel like NorthernBridges is backing me up.”
Today both mother and son are busy. Ritter works as a substitute teacher, is taking classes in computer training, and does other part-time jobs.
Fred, now 28 years old, is learning living skills such as managing money and going to the grocery store and job skills such as how to clean restrooms. NorthernBridges contracts with New Horizon’s North to provide this support. Personal care workers from Lori Knapp, Inc. come to the Ritter home to help Fred with tasks such as grooming and bathing.
“It’s our job to find the most appropriate, cost-effective services and providers to meet our members’ needs,” said Katharine Swanson, Fred’s Social Services Care Manager. “Before, Fred was just sitting at home most days. Now he is an active member of society, participating at the level he can and hoping to do more.”
His mom agrees.
“All the time he was home without me was time he was not productive,” said Ritter. “Now I know when I’m away, he is not going to be languishing.”
Ritter shakes her head and says it really hasn’t sunk in yet.
“I couldn’t do it all. It was very hard. Now I don’t have to do it all. Fred needed a life outside the house and independent of me. Now both he and I can move forward.”
The first stop to learn more about Family Care is at a County Aging and Disability Resource Center or ADRC. ADRC staff determines if an individual meets Family Care requirements or is eligible for other services. ADRCs are open to anyone with questions on long-term care, mental health and substance abuse services, or assistance with obtaining Medicaid and Medicare benefits.
To contact the ARDC of the North, call1-866-663-3607.
NorthernBridges Fills Two Board of Director Seats
March 2010 Press Release
Susan Reinardy and Howard Johnson have been appointed to fill two at-large positions on the Northwest Long-Term Care District (NW-LTCD) Board of Directors. The NW-LTCD board oversees NorthernBridges, a publicly funded managed-care organization bringing the state’s Family Care benefit to northwest Wisconsin. Family Care is a long-term care program for the elderly and adults with physical and developmental disabilities.
Reinardy had over 30 years’ experience in state government when she retired in 2007. She was the former Deputy Secretary for the Wisconsin Department of Health and Family Services (now Health Services).
Johnson brings over 40 years of healthcare experience to the board. He was Vice President/Chief Operating Officer of Lakeview Medical Center in Rice Lake for 32 years until his retirement in 2008.
“These two Directors will bring to the board an extensive health and managed-care business expertise that will provide a great complement to the diverse experiences and perspectives being provided by the 11 County directors and five Consumer directors on our board, “ said David Willingham, board chair. “This will enhance the strength and overall effectiveness of the board as we move forward into the future providing Family Care in Northwest Wisconsin.”
Reinardy and Johnson were appointed to the board on March 1. Terms are for four years.
“After retiring from state government, my husband and I moved to the Hayward area where we’ve had a cabin for 20 years,” said Reinardy. “I wanted to serve my new community and this seemed a good fit with my experience and background. I was directly involved in policy development for the current Family Care program during its early, formative years, as well as in managed care initiatives for the Wisconsin Medicaid program. I have seen and am committed to the positive impact well-managed programs can have on people’s lives and being part of the NorthernBridges board will afford me that opportunity.”
Johnson sees much similarity in the vision and values of his new and old organization. “Like NorthernBridges, Lakeview’s value statement specifically addresses integrity, respect, passion for learning, partnerships and being creative,” said Johnson. “Lakeview's vision statement was similar in that it provided the best quality and appropriate care to those it served. A board member’s role is to assure we meet the needs of the people we serve in a quality, compassionate and financially responsible manner. To be on a board with a similar mission, vision and values, is quite an honor.”
Board meetings are open to the public and held at 9:00 a.m. the first Monday of every month at the Flat Creek Inn in Hayward.
 
Newly appointed board members Susan Reinardy and Howard Johnson.
Learning Job Skills Leads to Opportunities for Members
January 2010 Press Release
Recently, some young NorthernBridges' members with developmental disabilities told their care team that they wanted to learn job skills. They had graduated high school and were ready to be active participants in their communities.
"In the case of these members, who are very high functioning young adults, one of the things we needed to do was find something for them to do to add value to their lives," said Carla Musil, a NorthernBridges social services care manager.
"Social interaction may be very limited for those with disabilities. It's a common theme after they graduate. They are bored, missing their friends from school, and sitting idle every day."
Very often, such isolation can lead to depression, which can cause some very real health issues. Nearly half of NorthernBridges members have developmental disabilities.
Musil connected these members to Ventures Unlimited, an organization that supports those with disabilities in developing skills for employment.
The group decided to develop a business patterned after those in Menomonie and Eau Claire that offer social events to the disabled community, as well as the general public. The first party proved a great success with a crowd of over 100.
"They are learning what works and what doesn't," said Musil. "What to charge to make a profit, how to plan on the food and purchase it, tracking costs, and doing marketing flyers."
Ventures' staff also meet weekly with the group to help them to develop skills to write a resume and how to interview for employment.
The hope is that for members who have the capability and desire to hold a job, NorthernBridges will help to meet that need.
"We help make the connections to community support and grants available to give our members some of the same opportunities as others have," said Musil.
These friends and business partners host social get-togethers for those with disabilities. From left to right: James “Jamie” Correll, Jennifer Sanders, Ben Anderson, and Melissa Dollaway.
NorthernBridges Cuts Into Long-Term Care Waiting Lists
February 2010 Press Release
It was ten years between phone calls. In 1999, Mary Updike was a hospital social worker when she put one of her patients on a waiting list for long-term care.
The woman, who was physically disabled, needed help to manage her household chores, assistance with bathing and personal care, and get to and from medical appointments.
“Back then, she was eligible for the county’s Community Options Program or “COP,” but there was a waiting list to get services,” said Updike. “We had been told a 12- to 24-month wait. Never would I have thought it would be 10 years.”
Updike’s patient was put on the waiting list because the county had reached its limit for the number of people it could afford to help.
Today, ten years later, Mary Updike works for NorthernBridges, a publicly funded organization created to deliver the state’s Family Care benefit to 11 northwest Wisconsin counties.
Family Care helps low-income elderly and adults with disabilities stay in their own homes or communities. The cost savings from keeping people in their own homes, rather than in more expensive care facilities, and managing resources over 11 counties will make it possible for waiting lists to disappear. Though that won’t happen overnight, it will happen. NorthernBridges will take a waiting list of 1193, transferred to them from 11 counties last spring, down to zero by 2013. A total of 230 have been removed so far.
“When I called to welcome her as a new member to NorthernBridges and Family Care, she said she remembered that I was the one that put her on the waiting list 10 years ago,” recalled Updike. “I said that I remembered her as well and that I was really pleased she could finally get the help she needed.”
Members of NorthernBridges are the center of a care team that includes a nurse, social worker and any other friend or family the member chooses. Together, the team determines a member’s health and life goals. To support those goals, NorthernBridges works with local providers to deliver services that members need to remain as independent as possible.
“What are the odds that I would be the one to put this woman on the waiting list and then welcome her off that list 10 years later?” asked Updike. “I know how gratifying it is for us to make these calls. I can only imagine what it’s like for our members after such a long, long wait to get that call.”
To become a NorthernBridges member, people must first visit their county Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC). The ADRC will determine if individuals are eligible for Family Care or a variety of other support services.
New DHS Administrator Crowley Visits Hayward Headquarters
October 2009
She had been in her new job for only 2 months, but Susan Crowley, Administrator of the Division of Long Term Care for the Division of Health Services (DHS), graciously accepted an invitation to visit Northern-Bridges to learn more about the organization.
"I think that speaks volumes about her commitment to Family Care and her view of the importance of the role of the partnership between the state and the MCOs," said David Wllingham, NW-LTCD Board Chair who also met with Crowley.
Value-Based Organization
"I think we had a very good meeting, said John McMahon, Northern-Bridges CEO. "We had three goals--to explain that we are a young and capable business; that we are unique; and that we are a value-based organization where values are not just framed and hanging on the wall, but part of our everyday operations."
The message appeared well-received. "It is so good to come to an organization that leads with its values," she said. "It says a lot about how you deliver services and treat each other."
Challenges Ahead
The challenges NorthernBridges face were addressed, including budget deficits that new MCO's initially incur.
Crowley acknowledged the "enormity of the rate and pace" of an 11-county roll-out in just four months and the hurdles ahead.
"Our primary goal has to be on how we stabilize Family Care for those already there, and build a sustainable model," said Crowley. "The challenges, especially financial, are not insurmountable. We will learn together. NorthernBridges' experience will help shape Family Care as it evolves."
Final Hub Opening in Ashland
At the end of their opening months in May, the Superior and Rice Lake hubs held "hub warmings" to mark the expansion of Family Care in their counties and recognize the agencies that helped make it happen. At the end of June, it was Spooner's and Centuria's turn, in July came Ladysmith, and in August came Park Falls and Hayward. The Ashland hub warming was moved back due to contruction delays, but finally had its big day on October 2. Now all hubs are "officially" up and running and invite you to visit anytime.
Click here for more:
Ashland photos
Rice Lake photos
Superior photos
Spooner photos
Centuria photos
Ladysmith photos
Park Falls Photos
Hayward Photos
At the Rice Lake hub warming, ribbon cutting duties were handled by (left to right) Mary Updike and Erin Owens, IDT Leads; John McMahon, CEO; and Board members David Willingham, Ken Mosentine, Jay Hands, and Mike Linton.
Cutting the ribbon at the Superior hub warming were IDT Leads Priscilla Manisto (left) and Marcia Gurno. Backing them up were the entire Superior crew, John McMahon, and Board members David Willingham and Jack Sweeney.
To see more hub photos, click here.
NorthernBridges Successful in Family Care Expansion
9/10/09 Press Release
It has been a busy summer for NorthernBridges. The new managed care organization (MCO) recently completed the opening of its eighth “hub” office, which delivers Family Care to 11 counties in northwest Wisconsin.
To read entire press release, click here.
State and NorthernBridges Sign Contract for
Family Care
5/1/09 Press Release
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services and NorthernBridges have reached agreement on a Family Care program contract effective May 1, 2009, through December 31, 2009.
“What is about to happen is really remarkable after so many months and years of planning and preparing,” said John T. McMahon, NothernBridges’ CEO. “We have reached the summit of an incredibly challenging and rewarding journey to think, dare, and do a public Family Care managed care organization. Our board of directors, staff, business partners, stakeholders of every sort including counties, legislators, advocates, clients, and others, have worked long and hard for this day to arrive.”
To read entire press release click here.
Hiring Continues to Go Well
May, 2009
NorthernBridges hit all its target dates to fill the positions needed to open for business on May 1.
"As we focused on the Rice Lake and Superior hubs to be ready for the May 1 opening date along with the Spooner and Polk County hubs for the June 1 opening date," said Gruetzmacher, "we are now concentrating on hiring for the July and August opening dates."
NorthernBridges has received 680 applications. To date, 294 individuals have been interviewed and 104 have been offered positions and hired, with start dates from now through August 1.
"We would encourage anyone interested in open positions to visit the "Careers" section of our website or to call our Human Resources Office at 715-934-2266 ext. 1114 or 1120," said Grueztmacher. "We would appreciate the opportunity to discuss our hiring timelines, open positions, and answer any questions."
Lots to Do When You're New
April, 2009
New employees spend their first weeks at the Hayward headquarters. There’s lots to do from orientation day to the day they head off to their new offices. Orientation meetings, attending a Board meeting, Family Care Training, Enterprise/IT training, and just getting to know everyone makes the month fly.
The board meeting and board members truly impressed me,” said Karen Johnson, SSCM. “I really felt supported as an employee.”
“I have started new jobs in the past and wondered what I had gotten myself into,” joked Gayle Frambs, behavioral health specialist, “but NorthernBridges is everything and more than I hoped it would be.”
The employee orientation “surge” will continue monthly through August.
Below: the first "class" poses for a graduation photo with
the Hayward staff.
First Member Enrolled!
April, 2009
Enrollment coordinator Glenda Tesmer had been on the job only 3 days when she found herself the center of a celebration--complete with confetti. Glenda successfully enrolled NorthernBridges’ first
member into the Enterprise system on April 9 amid the cheers of Hayward staff.
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