A new state law signed by Governor Tony Evers on March 18, 2026, expanding postpartum care coverage under BadgerCare Plus, is expected to significantly strengthen access to care for mothers and families in Racine through providers like Pillar Health.
The legislation extends Medicaid postpartum coverage, addressing a critical gap in care during the first year after childbirth, a period when health risks remain high, but many women lose consistent access to services. Wisconsin is now the 49th state to adopt this policy.
Each year, approximately 21 women in Wisconsin die from pregnancy-related causes, with about half of those deaths occurring postpartum. State data shows that 95 percent of these deaths are preventable, underscoring the importance of continuous care beyond pregnancy.
Expanding Access Where It’s Needed Most:
At Pillar Health’s Racine Clinic, the impact of this policy is immediate and tangible.
Since opening in July 2025, the clinic has served more than 700 patients, many of whom face barriers to consistent healthcare access. The expansion of BadgerCare Plus postpartum coverage allows more women to stay connected to care during a critical period, rather than falling out of the system after childbirth. The expanded coverage not only supports an extended monitoring period after childbirth but also opens the door for women who were not previously able to access well-integrated, preventative healthcare services. Pillar Health anticipates an increase in women who will be new to the preventative health services, as well as their newborn baby.
Located inside Julian Thomas Elementary School (930 Dr. Martin Luther King Dr., Door #3), the Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) provides comprehensive, community-based care designed to support both mothers and their children.
Closing the Postpartum Gap Through Integrated Care:
Pillar Health’s model is built to address one of the most persistent challenges in maternal health: the loss of care continuity after delivery.
With expanded coverage now in place, the clinic is able to more effectively:
- Provide ongoing postpartum medical care for mothers
- Address behavioral health needs, including postpartum depression
- Connect families to care coordination and support services
- Ensure infants receive early and consistent pediatric care
By offering medical, behavioral health, and care coordination services in one location, Pillar Health creates a seamless care experience that keeps families engaged in the healthcare system.
“This new law is a critical step forward for maternal health in Wisconsin,” said Dr. Mary Ouimet, CEO of Pillar Health. “At Pillar Health, we see firsthand how gaps in postpartum care impact women and families. Expanding coverage means we can keep mothers connected to care during one of the most important and vulnerable times in their lives and introduce them to a health home for themselves and their growing family.”
A Stronger Safety Net for Wisconsin Families:
Federally Qualified Health Centers serve more than 600,000 patients annually across Wisconsin, many of whom experience economic or access barriers. Pillar Health plays a vital role in this system, ensuring care is accessible regardless of a patient’s ability to pay.
The clinic accepts all insurance plans and offers a sliding fee discount program for uninsured patients.
In 2025:
- Over 2,000 enabling service visits supported care coordination and case management
- Nearly 1,000 families received insurance enrollment assistance
- More than 3,400 patients were served in a language other than English
Supporting Whole-Family Health:
In addition to women’s health services, the clinic provides pediatric care, school-based services, and preventive care, helping establish a long-term medical home for families.
Pillar Health’s Racine location is part of a broader partnership with the City of Racine Health Department, United Way of Racine County, and Racine Unified School District, advancing a community-centered model of care.
The clinic is also within walking distance of the future Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center, where all services will transition in approximately January of 2027, expanding to include dental care alongside integrated medical and behavioral health services.
Clinic Hours:
Servicios médicos:
Monday: 7:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Tuesday: 7:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Miércoles: 7:00 a. m. a 5:00 p. m.
Thursday: 7:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Friday: 7:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
Servicios de salud conductual:
Wednesday: 8:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m.
Friday: 8:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m.
Contact Information:
Para concertar una cita, llame al (262) 771-0035.
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