Wisconsin

Wisconsin

Number of dialysis patients statewide: 5,525

This state offers Medigap insurance to dialysis patients under 65.

Legislative session: January 7, 2013 - January 13, 2014

Medicare, a federal program, pays for dialysis for over 80% of dialysis treatments. However, many issues concerning dialysis patients are actually handled at the state level.

Individual states have to provide certain basic services under Medicaid, but they also have flexibility in how they structure their plans and set their reimbursement rates. In addition, some states have the authority to determine the need and location for additional dialysis facilities (this is often referred to as certificate of need). Because dialysis patients’ care can be affected by state officials as well as federal officials, DPC members are becoming more active on state issues—ensuring the patients’ voice is heard locally as well as nationally.

Wisconsin Dialysis Patient Resources

ESRD Network

#11 Renal Network fo the Upper Midwest
1360 Energy Park Drive, Suite 200
St. Paul, MN  55108
1-800-973-3773

State Run Programs

Wisconsin Department of Health, ForwardHealth
1-800-362-3002

  • Adult Programs: Medicaid plans for Elderly, Blind or Disabled provide health care for those who are age 65 or older, blind or disabled.  The Medicaid plan you are enrolled in depends on your income, assets, and type of care you need.
  • Programs for Children: BadgerCare Plus for Children and Families. All children under 19 years old, at all income levels, can enroll in BadgerCare Plus. 
  • Medication Programs: SeniorCare Prescription Drug Program A prescription drug assistance program for Wisconsin residents who are 65 years of age or older.
  • Additional Programs:  BadgerCare Plus also covers: Parents and caretakers at higher income levels.

Health Reform Status

Exchange: The federal government will run the health insurance exchange in Wisconsin.

Medicaid: It is not known at this time whether the state will expand Medicaid eligibility.

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