Health disparities reduction or elimination – Wis. Stat. Ann. § 250.20

Health Disparities Reduction or Elimination

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services must:

• Identify barriers to health care affecting disadvantaged members of minority populations. 
• Hold statewide hearings on this topic and must advise state agencies on the impact of state policies of the health of economically disadvantaged minority populations. 
• Review, monitor and advise state agencies about impact of state laws, regulations and policies on disadvantaged minority groups' health
• Coordinate with different government entities to develop long-term solutions for minority group health problems
• Distribute information on the health status of these populations. 
• Encourage minority youth to enter health professions. 
• Submit a report that includes recommendations twice yearly to legislative committees and the governor. 

The law requires that the Department annually award grants for activities that help improve the health of minority group members, and sets forth requirements for applying for these grants.  The law also requires that the Department grant $50,000 every year to a private nonprofit entity to conduct a public information campaign on minority health issues.  The Department is also responsible for allocating funding for American Indian health projects.