Chippewa Valley’s New Independent Hospital: What You Need to Know

In Wisconsin’s Chippewa Valley, the Health Cooperative is changing the game with its plans for a full-service, locally-governed hospital. They’ve just earned a big stamp of approval from the IRS, gaining a 501c3 designation. tomorrow, they’re inviting everyone to a meeting at the Heyde Center to spill the beans on their hospital project.The group isn’t just sitting back, though. Recently, Aspirus announced they’d build an acute care hospital in Chippewa Falls. The Health Cooperative is here to say, “Not so fast! ” They’re clarifying their vision for a hospital that offers labor and delivery services, top-notch cancer care, and a range of surgical options. Robert Krause, the board chair, explained that the community has long relied on out-of-town hospital systems, and it’s time for a change. Dr. Kyle Dettbarn, who leads the OakLeaf Medical Network, is also backing the new hospital. With over 50, 000 primary care patients, he believes local control is crucial for any new hospital’s success in the region. The Health Cooperative’s plan, he says, is the best answer to the area’s healthcare challenges.