The Chippewa Valley Health Cooperative has opened membership to both community and physician members in the 15-county region. Eligible community members, who must be 18 years old and licensed physicians practicing in Wisconsin, can join the cooperative by paying a one-time fee of $25 for community members and $100 for physician members. Members are encouraged to use the facilities and services of the cooperative when they become available.
The cooperative has announced plans to build an independent, nonprofit community hospital in the Chippewa Valley region. Formed on February 29, 2024, by community leaders, the cooperative aims to address healthcare access and costs in the area. By keeping governance and management in the Chippewa Valley, the organization aims to be accountable to the immediate community rather than outside interests. The goal is to provide high-quality healthcare services for generations to come.
As a member of the cooperative, individuals will have a voice in shaping the future of healthcare in their community through voting on a formal Board of Directors in the fall. A unique aspect of this cooperative business model is that members who use the services also own and democratically govern the business. Wisconsin has a strong cooperative presence, with over 850 cooperative businesses owned by 2.9 million residents. This community-driven initiative ensures that healthcare services are accountable and accessible to the people of the Chippewa Valley region.
