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Ashland County health department reports stronger revenue capture, grant applications and harm-reduction work
Summary
Health department staff reported that a new EHR system improved reimbursement capture, affecting 2025 revenues; the department applied for drug-checking and Safe Homes grants, completed lead-risk assessor training, and distributes gun locks via vending machines.
Department staff delivered the 2025 year-end financial report, saying personnel costs came in under budget while some direct costs exceeded allocations. Staff attributed increased revenue to improved billing and capture after implementing a new electronic health-record (EHR) system, and cautioned that auditors may make minor adjustments before finalizing figures.
Staff said the department has applied for the next round of drug-checking technology funding (including fentanyl test strips) and for the Wisconsin Safe Homes program; a staff member completed lead-risk-assessor training contingent on grant renewal. The Wisconsin beaches program will resume in May under contract with Bayfield County for sample collection to reduce transportation costs.
Public-health vending machines have distributed roughly 60 gun locks to date; locations cited included the health department’s front entrance, the fire department vestibule, a smoke-shop near Walmart, and a machine at Bad River.
Board members asked about the budget calendar; staff confirmed the department follows the calendar year (Jan–Dec) and will begin 2027 budget planning in June.
