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Wisconsin Department of Health Services

 

Wisconsin Arthritis Program

Program's Activities

Monitor Arthritis through Epidemiology and Surveillance

Epidemiology and surveillance are the program's foundation.  Data are compiled and analyzed to determine the burden that arthritis and its complications have on Wisconsin residents.  The Arthritis Program uses the information to identify high-risk groups, tailor interventions, and advocate for prevention efforts. See Arthritis in Wisconsin

Coordinate Statewide Arthritis-related Activities

The program provides statewide leadership for arthritis prevention, control and management.  The Wisconsin Arthritis Advisory Council is a diverse group of health, business, and advocacy partners. It serves as the Arthritis Program’s consultative partnership group.  Through this network of partner organizations and individuals, the Program coordinates statewide interactions and links arthritis-related programs.

Implement an Arthritis State Plan

The Wisconsin Arthritis Action Plan is based on the National Arthritis Action Plan (exit DHFS; PDF, 1.18 MB) and the Wisconsin State Health Plan (Healthiest Wisconsin 2010).  It sets priorities to reduce the burden of arthritis in Wisconsin. The program works with state- and local-level organizations, health systems, occupational agencies, schools, the media, community organizations, businesses and government agencies to implement appropriate initiatives to reduce the burden of arthritis in Wisconsin.

Support Community Initiatives

The program supports community-based interventions, such as Arthritis Self-Help Course (ASHC) (exit DHFS).  ASHC  is an evidence-based educational program that is effective, according to CDC, in reducing pain and health costs associated with Arthritis.  It is available in both English and Spanish.  The Program promotes increased physical activity to help people with arthritis maintain and improve joint strength, flexibility, and range of motion.  CDC also recommends that physical activity and weight control as a means of managing arthritis related pain. 

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Last Revised: October 24, 2008