About

Health Care Network is a non-profit clinic that provides free and low-cost medical, dental, and behavioral health services to low-income, uninsured residents of Racine County. HCN is made up of 18 dedicated staff members and a network of over 250 invaluable volunteers!

 

 

 

Board of Directors

Samantha Anderegg-Boticki - President                                                                          

Sarah Helding MSN RN - Vice President                                          

Alison Kirklin - Treasurer                                                                          

David Isaacson - Secretary                                                                     

Steve Donovan

Greg Helding

Kelly Kauffman

Marc Kennedy MD

Amanda Kivenas

Greg Mueller

Scott Munro DDS

Vikki Prochaska

Janelle Scales

Adrienne Schultz MSN RN                                                                                            

Amrinder Singh MD

 

Executive Director

Having earned a Bachelor in Social Work and a Master of Business Administration, Alison Sergio, Executive Director of Health Care Network since 2014, has worked in the nonprofit sector for over 26 years. Alison is also an adjunct instructor at UW-Milwaukee's Child Welfare Partnership Program within the Helen Bader School of Social Welfare. She has abundant experience in grant writing as well as program development and implementation with a proven track record of positive outcomes.

Message from Executive Director

It is a privilege and humbling experience to serve alongside a staff with decades of dedicated service of providing free/ low cost health care to uninsured and low-income residents of Racine County.  With rapidly changing policies on healthcare, access will become increasingly restricted for those of limited economic means while demand for services from safety net clinics such as Health Care Network will increase.  Data continue to show that investment in non-emergency services prevents costly defaults to emergency provisions.  Yet, the challenge remains at a local level to secure funding to meet the healthcare needs of those who are federally excluded.  Health Care Network is a coalition of volunteer physicians, nurses, dentists, dental hygienists, and chiropractors that believe that everyone should be afforded access to quality healthcare.  We are grateful to all of our community partners, businesses, foundations and caring individuals that continue to support our mission. Remaining united in creating a healthier community benefits us all. 

“We cannot seek achievement for ourselves and forget about progress and prosperity for our community… Our ambitions must be broad enough to include the aspirations and needs of others, for their sakes and for our own.”
- Cesar Chavez

Sincerely,

Alison Sergio

 

Milestones

2023 Starting in late spring, HCN began working with the non-profit organization Sostento to offer free Uber rides to our enrolled patients.

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2022

Health Care Network began implementing the Electronic Records System FHASES. The transition to digital medical charts was started, with over 200 paper charts scanned and uploaded within the first year alone. CPT codes began to be added to patient encounter records, allowing the total value of provided health care to be more accurately quantified.

2021

HCN launched a Self-Monitoring Blood Pressure program to help make hypertension patient-physician interactions more effective. Patients get to meet with a hypertension educator, learn more about blood pressure, and self-take their blood pressures from home prior to their medical appointments. 

2020

“His caring, respectful approach to all patients is admirable. He listens well and provides them with the utmost care.” Dr. William Little has been with Health Care Network since the very beginning. Over thirty years after joining HCN's mission, he was featured in the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health's Quarterly Publication. Thank you for everything you do, Dr. Little! Read the article here: https://www.med.wisc.edu/quarterly/volume-22-number-1/william-little-still-practicing-at-98/

2019

We've moved! After providing care at 904 State Street for 27 years, the new Health Care Network facility is located at 500 Wisconsin Avenue in downtown Racine.

The Backyard Bash event in June was our most successful fundraiser to date, bringing in over $60,000 in much needed funding for our organization.

In just nineteen months since the Capital Campaign was launched, Health Care Network reached our funding goal of $600,000. We are incredibly gratified by the overwhelming support from our community!

2018

Health Care Network officially began offering social services with the addition of an on-staff social worker! This program was generously funded by the Wheaton Franciscan Sisters Ministry Fund.

In June, HCN kicked off the Building A Healthier Community Capital Campaign with the goal of moving to a new, upgraded facility by mid-2019.

2017

Health Care Network celebrates its 30 Year anniversary! The agency became a partner of Wisconsin Association of Free and Charitable Clinics (WAFCC) and was awarded the Bronze Seal of Excellence. Through WAFCC, HCN will host an AmeriCorps VISTA member for three years.

Additionally, Bridget Diaz and then later, Tony Zwaga, joined the clinic to add social services to our program. Both are graduate level Social Work students from University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee.

In the summer, the biennial fundraiser, A Salute to the 40s, at the EAA Chapter 838 Museum at John H. Batten Airport raised an astounding $53,000.

2016

The biennial HCN Ladies Luncheon fundraiser was a terrific success, raising a record $33,000! What an amazing show of support for our mission! Additionally, the agency is again fortunate to be a United Way of Racine County partner provider and was awarded $119,500 to support services for the 2016-2017 fiscal year.

Students from UW-Parkside Applied Sciences and Spanish programs joined the many volunteers at HCN. They assisted by providing Spanish interpretation, answering phones and providing extra help in the office. Students in UW-Parkside’s Database Design Class created a database for staff and volunteers to better manage patients with chronic diseases. We are fortunate to have created this beneficial partnership!

In late 2016, HCN was again awarded $100,000 from the Aurora Better Together Fund to add social services to its programming.

2015

After closing the Burlington Outreach Clinic location, the agency began providing services at Waterford’s Aurora Clinic and Vickie was hired to coordinate the program at this location. To kick off the summer season, Health Care Network held its fundraiser, Health Care Network Takes Flight, at the EAA Chapter 838 Museum at John H. Batten Airport. Great friends, great food and a great time had by all!

Health Care Network was thrilled to be awarded $100,000 from the Aurora Health Care Better Together Fund, facilitated by the Greater Milwaukee Foundation. Funds will be used over the next two years to support the increase in clinic capacity, allowing an additional 600 patients to be served over the next two years.

2014

Health Care Network (HCN) bids farewell to Executive Director, Barb Tylenda and welcomes new Executive Director, Alison Sergio. The Affordable Care Act kicked into full gear with 4 staff members passing the training to become Certified Application Counselors. 229 patients were assisted in obtaining BadgerCare+ and 44 individuals were helped with Marketplace plans. On May 2, 2014, “The Little Black Dress through the Ages”, a women’s luncheon, sponsored by Racine Dental Group raises a record $18,998. Additionally, through their partnership with HCN and other valuable organizations, the Greater Racine Mammogram Coalition receives a grant of $110,117.

The agency joins the community in mourning the loss of James Simonds MD.

2013

Despite the approaching Affordable Care Act, the need for health care services in Western Racine County grows. On July 10, 2013 in partnership with Aurora Health Care, an on-site clinic is opened on Wednesday mornings at the Western Racine County Health Dept. Three physicians Sandra Billingsley MD, Richard Ellingstad MD, and E. Paul Gander MD launch the effort as volunteer physicians.

A record $36, 095.22 is raised at the Cornerstone Country Fair fundraiser held at the home of Drs. Ric & Debbie Palmer. 

The agency mourns the loss of Ernest MacVicar MD, Warren Williamson MD, and long time supporter Peggy Constantine.

2012

Health Care Network marks its 25th anniversary with a celebration sponsored by the Johnson Foundation at Wingspread. Mayor John Dickert and County Executive James Ladwig designate October 18, 2012 as Health Care Network, Inc. Day in the city and county of Racine. To date 173,511 appointments provided by agency volunteers. 

The agency mourns the loss of Howard Gass MD, John Jamieson MD, Goro Tsuchiya MD, early Board member Don Tredwell, and longtime supporter Jim Mohrhauser.

2011

The State BadgerCare+ Core Program comes to a standstill resulting in record numbers being referred to the agency.  Agency reluctantly begins a waiting list.  Assistance with prescriptions rises to a record 6,326.  Merriment & frivolity abounds at the Renaissance themed fundraiser held at the home of Pam Johnson.  $29,430 raised.  Health Care Network mourns the loss of early volunteers Al Hartog, William Madden MD, and Fannie Wynstra RN.

2010

Health Care Network in partnership with WFHC-All Saints, Aurora Healthcare, City of Racine Health Dept, and the Jane Cremer Foundation formed the Greater Racine Mammogram Coalition to utilize Susan G Komen funds to increase access to mammograms for Racine County women. Agency receives an Outstanding Service Award from the Racine Interfaith Coalition. Health Care Network mourns the loss of long time volunteer H.L. Ericson MD.

2009

Volunteer Pat Quinn-Benson is named 2009 Health Care Services Volunteer of the Year by the Volunteer Center of Racine County. Wolf Korndoerfer hosts “Escape to Nantucket” to benefit the Network. Despite the expansion of the BadgerCare+ Core Program to include childless adults, a record 10,054 appointments are provided by the volunteers.

2008

Continuing to Care reaches $1,073,113 in pledges.  Senator Herb Kohl secured a federal grant in the amount of $86,568 for the agency’s dental program allowing us to provide some endodontic and prosthedontic work onsite as well as double our capacity to offer cleanings.  Barb Tylenda, Executive Director, presented a program on Building on Endowment.  At year end nearly 10,000 appointments were provided by the volunteers.

2007

Agency celebrates 20 years of service to the community.  Launches Continuing to Care a $1,000,000 endowment campaign.  Volunteers are honored with the 2007 Bravehearts…Heroes Among Us Award from the American Red Cross of S.E. Wisconsin and the Hispanic Business and Professional Association’s Community Enhancement Award.  Barb Tylenda, Executive Director, receives the 2007 Community Outreach Award from the Wisconsin Dental Association.  Ruud Lighting hosts Viva Las Vegas a fundraiser honoring the agency’s 20 year anniversary.

2006

In partnership with the Racine County Dental Society the Agency hosted Give Kids a Smile Day at the new onsite dental clinic serving 82 children over two days. A new fundraiser Pleasures & Treasures a Silent Auction & Sale for Health Care Network is launched. Planning begins for the agency’s 20th year anniversary in 2007.

2005

The onsite Dental clinic opens on April 6, 2005 thanks to the volunteer contribution of many contractors led by Matt Prince of Riley Construction along with generous donors led by the St. Luke’s Trustees Advised Fund with the Racine Community Foundation. In the first quarter of operation a 30% increase in dental services is realized. By year end, 12 dentists, 7 hygienists, and 7 assistants are volunteering their time.

Happy Trails to You…You're Invited to a Western Barbecue is hosted at the home of Bob & Linda Budlow raising a record $32,100.

2004

Agency makes commitment to start an on-site dental clinic.  Riley Construction volunteers to supervise remodeling of space at 906 State Street.  Dental community offers widespread support for project.

2003

Racine suffers from worst unemployment rate in the State dramatically increasing the request for services from the agency.  Barb Tylenda, Executive Director, is honored to be selected to accept the 2003 All America City Award on behalf of the Greater Racine delegation in Washington DC.  Dr. Tom & Rae Wood host the Islands of Adventure fundraiser which raises $27,320 for the Agency.  At fiscal year-end, 9,228 health care appointments provided, largest to date.

2002

Agency celebrates 15-year anniversary.  Surgeon General David Satcher MD, PhD recognizes the volunteers in a letter during National Volunteer Week.  William Little MD, Volunteer Medical Director quoted in U.S. News & World Report.  Board completes Strategic Plan which establishes five priorities for the next three years: dental care, pharmaceutical assistance, growing Hispanic population, continued (operational) funding, and expansion of existing services to meet the increased volume.  68,181 appointments provided since program inception.

2001

Agency begins Outcomes Based Management focusing on decreasing use of local emergency rooms for non emergency care and lowering blood pressure and glucose levels among hypertensives and diabetics.  Director Barb Tylenda serves as the State Representative of the Wisconsin Free Clinics who hosts a seven state conference of Free Clinics of the Great Lakes Region.  Best of Broadway event raises $19,101.12, which helps to offset the additional costs inherent with a 26% increase in service requests.

2000

There are now 185 physicians, 43 dentists, 19 pharmacies, and the 3 area hospitals joining together to provide 7,066 appointments this year.  Agency receives the first annual Sustainable Racine Recognition Award in the non profit category.

1999

Passport to Adventure a fundraiser sponsored by Jean & Jim Mohrhauser is held to raise funds for the new pharmaceutical assistance fund called the Good Samaritan Program.  Executive Director, Barb Tylenda, receives the 1999 Woman of Distinction Award for Public Service from the Racine YWCA.  Decade ends with Health Care Network having provided 45,440 appointments since its inception.

1998

Volunteers of Health Care Network, Inc. receive Group Golden Rule Award for Southeastern Wisconsin from JC Penney.  Emergency Pharmaceutical Fund sponsored by Racine Area United Way is transferred to Health Care Network, Inc.  A partnership forms between Racine Family Practice Center (FPC) and Health Care Network, Inc.  Residents of FPC rotate through the on-site clinics as part of their community health rotation.

1997

Strategic Planning process develops strategy for the future.  Partnership with Center for Health & Education formed to provide outreach services in Burlington.  Office assistant hired.  Sertoma Club sponsors first annual Tee-It-Up for Health Care Network, Inc.  10 Year Anniversary Celebration entitled “Celebrating the Vision” held 11-22-97.  Over 30,000 appointments provided since inception.

1996

General Assistance ends in Racine County stretching agency capacity. New staff hired with Racine County Grant.  Now 5 FTE’s.  Health Care Network, Inc. presents its program at National Conference in Dallas on November 4, 1996.  First fundraising event of agency held at home of Dr. & Mrs. Joseph Bergs.

1995

Health Care Network receives Meritorious Service Award in the 1995 Community Preventative Dentistry Competition sponsored by the American Dental Association. Anesthesiologists join the program.  Total of 21,008 appointments scheduled to date.

1994

Health Care Network, Inc. chosen to represent Racine in the All America City Competition sponsored by National Civic League.  Racine selected as a finalist.  Agency doubles space to 3000 sq. ft. with use of CDBG and In-Kind contributions from several construction companies.  Brenda Walsh OP, officially honored as founder of Health Care Network, Inc.

1993

Hispanic Health Coordinator hired to improve services to Hispanic Community.  Agency mourns death of Elizabeth Allen Steffen, MD and dedicates on-site clinic in her memory.

1992

Agency moves to 904 State Street thanks to a State Grant, a successful Capital Campaign and the volunteer efforts of many contractors and individuals.  Health Care Network, Inc. honored by President Bush as Point of Light.  Agency becomes member of Racine Area United Way.

1991

Request for services doubled.  Program assistant becomes full-time.  Part-time Administrative Assistant hired.  Burlington office closes.  Renquist/Associates, Inc. donates design of new logo and letterhead.  Total of 4,550 appointments scheduled to date.

1990

Executive Director position becomes full-time.  First Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) received. Incorporated name changed to Health Care Network, Inc. Governor signs Wisconsin Act 206 - the Volunteer Health Care Provider law initiated by then Rep. Kim Plache.  Network moves to 734 Lake Ave.  Space donated by Elizabeth Allen Steffen, MD.  On-site services initiated.  6 retired MD’s and 7 RN’s start. Total 2,200 appointments scheduled to date.

1989

Barb Tylenda hired for part-time Executive Director position. 1,090 appointments scheduled since inception.

1988

Part-time program assistant hired.  In January, 44 physicians registered with program.  Pharmaceutical, dental discounts, and eye care service added.  Office opened in Burlington two mornings per month.  First issue of ACCESS, agency’s newsletter is published in November.

Nov. 1987

Racine County Community Clinic, Inc. officially opens.  Office hours are Tuesday & Thursday from 10:00 am - 3:00 pm.

Oct. 1987

First part-time director hired - Rea Katz.

Sept. 1987

Basement office space donated by First Presbyterian Church.  St. Luke’s Trustees make a significant financial commitment.

Jan. - Sept. 1987

Group incorporated as Racine County Community Clinic, Inc.  Project name - Racine County Health Care Network.  Providers recruited, referral mechanism developed.  Site selection in progress.  St. Mary’s Health Care Foundation makes a $150,000 grant over a 5 year period.

1982

A taskforce on unemployment was formed in response to a 22% unemployment rate in Racine County.  Health care needs identified as a high priority.  “The Caring Plan” developed individual arrangements between MD and patient.  As more jobs lost, plan became inadequate.  Racine 2000 met for a day long conference at the Siena Center.  Access to health care for the uninsured identified as a high priority.  20 people join a task force led by Brenda Walsh OP.  A Green Bay clinic is visited.  Goal is to develop a Community Clinic in Racine.  Local physicians express a preference for serving the uninsured within their own offices.