SSM Monroe Physicians testify with Rep. Novak on Graduate Medical Training Legislation
For Immediate Release Contact: Rep. Todd Novak
November 9, 2023 (608) 266-7502
SSM Monroe Physicians testify with Rep. Novak on Graduate Medical Training Legislation
MADISON – Representative Todd Novak (Dodgeville) joined physicians from SSM Monroe Residency Program to testify on Assembly Bill 618, a bill authored by Rep. Novak to expand the eligibility requirements for Graduate Medical Training (GMT) administered by the Department of Health Services (DHS).
The GMT program is a grant program that is administered through the Department of Health Services (DHS) to provide rural clinics and hospitals assistance in operating residency training programs such as “Grow Your Own” program or the Graduate Medical Education (GME) program. These programs allow recent medical school graduates the opportunity to continue their training and practice medicine in Wisconsin.
After touring SSM Monroe earlier this spring, Rep. Novak successfully added a provision to the state budget to increase funding for the GMT Program by $1.87 million. This bill follows up on that success by expanding the eligibility requirements for the program and easing regulatory burdens.
At SSM Monroe, nearly 90% of Monroe’s GME participants continue to practice in Wisconsin, and 65% are practicing in a rural community. “SSM Monroe’s resident retention numbers are a true testament to the success of this program. It is vital that we continue to support GMT programs that keep our doctors in Wisconsin and our rural communities,” said Novak. “My bill will allow health systems like SSM Monroe to continue to commit to the GMT program for the long-term future to ensure rural areas continue to be served by world class healthcare providers”.
Rep. Novak can be reached at (608) 266-7502 or by email at Rep.Novak@legis.wisconsin.gov. Additional information on Rep. Novak can be found at his website RepNovak.com.
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