DHS announces $10 million for clinics serving underserved populations

The Department of Health Services said Thursday it’ll provide $10 million in federal funding for community health centers as well as rural health, tribal health and free and low-cost clinics responding to COVID-19.

Providers will have to apply for the funding. DHS will evaluate the expenses clinics occurred related to the COVID-19 pandemic and not eligible for reimbursement from other funding sources like private and public payers.

Expenses could include implementation of telehealth, loss of revenue from fewer visits, staffing and costs associated with buying additional equipment and supplies like personal protective equipment.

The federal funds come from the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act. Applications will be accepted from June 5 to the end of the month.

“This pandemic brings with it a myriad of challenges and clinics across the state have done an amazing job of adapting in order to continue providing high-quality care to some of our most vulnerable neighbors,” DHS Secretary-designee Andrea Palm said in a statement. “This funding will help alleviate some of their COVID-19 expenses.”

Wisconsin Health News is removing the password on all stories related to the coronavirus. For the latest developments follow us on Twitter at @wihealthnews or check out our website. For complete healthcare coverage, sign up for a free trial to our daily email newsletter.