In a recent meeting of the Trempealeau County Board, significant strides were reported in the establishment of a new healthcare cooperative aimed at addressing local healthcare needs following the closure of two hospitals in Eau Claire. The cooperative, which has already attracted around 600 members, is designed to prioritize patient care over profit, a shift that local leaders believe is crucial for the community's health and economic stability.

The discussion highlighted the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on healthcare systems, particularly in the La Crosse and Eau Claire areas, where job losses in the healthcare sector raised alarms about the economic implications for local communities. With the closure of St. Joseph and Sacred Heart hospitals, along with 19 Prevea Clinics, the need for a sustainable healthcare solution became urgent.

Local government officials emphasized the importance of healthcare cooperatives, which are member-owned organizations that allow doctors, nurses, and patients to have a say in decision-making. This model aims to create a healthcare system that is more responsive to community needs rather than solely focused on financial outcomes.

The cooperative is currently in the process of organizing its governance structure, with plans for a board of incorporators to take over from the initial board of originators. A proposed $140 million hospital project is also in the works, which is expected to serve the Chippewa Valley area effectively.

The cooperative recently received its 501(c)(3) nonprofit designation, enabling it to accept philanthropic donations, a crucial step in securing funding for its initiatives. The community's response has been positive, with ongoing efforts to engage more residents and healthcare professionals in the cooperative's mission.

As the cooperative moves forward, it represents a proactive approach to ensuring that Trempealeau County and surrounding areas have access to quality healthcare services, ultimately aiming to bolster both community health and local economies. The board's discussions reflect a commitment to addressing the pressing healthcare challenges faced by residents and fostering a collaborative approach to health services in the region.