Detailed Introduction
The Bad River Tribal Health Center, also widely known as the Bad River Health and Wellness Center, is a vital healthcare facility established and operated by the Bad River Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians. Located at 53585 Nokomis Road, Ashland, WI 54806, the center provides integrated healthcare services primarily to tribal members, while also extending its services to non-native spouses and employees.
The center offers a broad spectrum of medical and wellness services designed to address the diverse needs of the community. These services include primary care, specialty healthcare, optical services, a pharmacy, and comprehensive dental care with modern facilities including digital radiography. A significant focus of the center is on behavioral health and substance use treatment, providing programs for alcoholism and drug addiction. They utilize evidence-based approaches such as Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) in conjunction with counseling, including individual, group, family, and couples counseling. The center also emphasizes harm reduction strategies, notably through a statewide mail-order service for free naloxone (Narcan) to combat opioid overdoses, demonstrating a wider community impact beyond direct clinic services.
Beyond direct medical care, the Bad River Tribal Health Center integrates cultural support into its personalized care approach, recognizing the importance of holistic wellbeing that encompasses physical, emotional, and spiritual health. They also provide supportive services like recovery coaching, peer support, and transitional services including discharge planning and follow-up after discharge. Transportation services for clinical appointments are offered to ensure accessibility for tribal members from surrounding areas.
The expansion of the Bad River Health and Wellness Center, which includes an approximate 54,000 square foot building footprint expansion and new facilities like basketball courts, a walking path, locker rooms, a workout room, and a pool area, signifies a commitment to meeting the growing healthcare and recreational needs of the Bad River Tribe. This expansion aims to provide a safe space for community members to receive new care services and access year-round physical recreation. The center operates as a key component of the Bad River Band's efforts to promote self-sufficiency, family unity, and the overall wellbeing of its people, reflecting a dedication to community health and cultural preservation.
