Serving as a Non-profit
As a not-for-profit health care organization, Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare reinvests all net income into the communities we serve, rather than distributing it to shareholders or private owners. We exist to serve and benefit our communities.
Providing Care To All
Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare is committed to providing necessary health care services to people in the communities we serve. No person is denied emergency care or receives less than the appropriate level of care based on his or her ability to pay. We have specific procedures in place that help those who cannot pay or need help paying for their care.
Specifically, patients whose household income is up to 400 percent of the federal poverty level can enroll in the System’s Community Care Program, which relieves a portion of or a patient’s entire financial obligation. We also develop reasonable payment plans for patients who can afford to pay over time and are confident that our collection practices are aligned with our values of respect and integrity. See more on our Payment for Services policy and the brochure for patients or click here for more information.
This year in Southeast Wisconsin, Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare contributed $79,439,232 to our communities including $15,387,000 in charity care (free or discounted health services calculated based on actual costs) to those who could not afford to pay and met all criteria for financial assistance.
Improving Our Community’s Health
Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare is committed to improving the health of our communities. We regularly assess the needs of our communities (with special attention to low-income and minority populations), and reach out to fill the void that exists for many of our poor, disabled, elderly, and chronically ill. We support many community-building efforts, such as economic revitalization, neighborhood improvement, and enhanced public transportation.
Investing In Our Mission
Many of our facilities are exempt from income, sales and some property taxes. That means we are also able to solicit and receive philanthropic funds and government grants. The ability to access these funds is important as the health care industry struggles to raise adequate capital needed to continue to meet the ever changing needs of our communities. We are dedicated to investing in technology, facilities and programs that improve patients’ access to our services, help our clinicians provide quality care, advance clinical research, and attract the most skilled and dedicated staff.
To learn more about what Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare is doing to promote the health of our communities, increase access to care, and invest in the future of health care, please see our Annual Report and Community Impact Report.