Latest News

Marshfield Clinic Research Institute kicks off third year of citizen tick collecting

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 15:24:27 GMT

MARSHFIELD, Wis. – Building on two years of citizen support, Marshfield Clinic Research Institute is once again asking Wisconsin residents to send in ticks they find while working and recreating outside this year.

In 2024, the Research Institute launched the Tick Inventory via Citizen Science (TICS) in an effort to identify ticks that are found in the state. This information can be used to assess risk of encountering a tickborne disease and to learn more about who is being exposed to and diagnosed with tickborne diseases.

In both 2024 and 2025, nearly 6,000 ticks were collected annually from nearly every Wisconsin county.

“We had overwhelming support from people are curious and invested in helping better identify the health threats associated with ticks,” said Jennifer Meece, Marshfield Clinic Research Institute executive director. “We had many calls last year from people who told us about the impact tick-borne disease had on their lives.”

Of the ticks collected in 2024, nearly 3,600 or more than 61 percent were the American dog (wood) tick and the majority of the remainder were the deer (blacklegged) tick. Researchers saw almost a 10 percent increase in the number of the much smaller deer ticks submitted in 2025 compared to a year earlier.

“The deer tick’s small size and greater likelihood of carrying illnesses like Lyme disease is what makes it critical to perform tick checks after spending time in wooded or brushy areas,” said Alexandra Linz, Marshfield Clinic Research Institute associate research scientist.

Risk of nasty diseases, seeking personal feedback

Deer ticks carry pathogens that may cause diseases such as Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, ehrlichiosis, and babesiosis. The influx of ticks discovered during the first two years of the study allowed the research team to detect much rarer species in Wisconsin, such as the lone star tick.

“Some of these ticks are typically found in warmer climates are now appearing in the Midwest,” Linz said. “The question is, are they breeding here or are they just catching a ride and we found it by chance?”

At the end of last tick season, the Research Institute reached out to everyone agreed to a post-season survey to learn more about their experiences with Lyme disease or other tick-borne disease. This year, along with ongoing tick collection and surveys, the goal is to understand in more detail experiences with Lyme and other tick-transmitted diseases. Anyone can share their story – a tick submission is not required.

“We’ve had a number of people who have shared their stories of themselves or their loved ones who endured through a tick-borne illness,” Meece said. “Our new study Tick Inventory via Citizen Science-Lyme Experience Narrative Study or TICS-LENS is aimed at engaging individuals who have experienced Lyme or another tick-infection to tell their story. It is open text, so individuals can share as little or as much as they feel comfortable sharing. Responses will be anonymous, unless people want to share their contact information.”

Symptoms of illnesses resulting from a tick bite can include rash, fever, joint pain, and fatigue. Contact your medical provider if you have these symptoms. To reduce the risk of tick bites, spray insecticide such as permethrin on clothing, sleeping bags, and tent fabric. Wear clothing that covers your skin. Finally, check yourself or have someone help you check for ticks after time spent outdoors.

Get your tick kit

For more information, or to request a pre-paid collection kit be sent to you, contact tics@marshfieldclinic.org or 1-715-389-7796 (extension 16462). Parks and nature centers interested in having kits available for their visitors also are encouraged to contact Marshfield Clinic Research Institute. Kits left over from last year may still be used.

Once the tick, dead or alive, has been placed in the collection kit, just drop it in the mail to submit. Any tick found on people or pets is appreciated. Each kit will come with a unique identification number that people can use to look up, via an online dashboard, the species of ticks they submitted.

Cruise for a Cause donates $175,750 to Marshfield Clinic Research Institute for cancer research

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 17:37:37 GMT

MARSHFIELD – A cool car, a passionate approach to cancer research and the dedication of thousands of supporters are helping Marshfield Clinic Research Institute continue its fight against cancer.

Pittsville native Dan Neve and his wife, Linda, met with more than 100 researchers, physicians and scientists at Marshfield Clinic Research Institute Dec. 18 and presented a $175,750 check onbehalf of their charity, Cruise for a Cause, to fund cancer research within Marshfield Clinic region of Sanford Health.

“It’s all of the researchers and scientists who make me and everyone else believe and have hope,” Dan Neve said. “Keep doing what you do and one day we’ll all be able to say, ‘we won’.”

The Neves are all too familiar with breast and other cancer diagnoses.

In 2010 while Linda was undergoing treatment for breast cancer, Dan decided to combine his passion for cars and desire to fight back against cancer and launched Cruise for a Cause. Traveling the country in his Mustang Shelby GT 500 to car shows, auto races, and countless other events, Neve has raised more than a $1.5 million for cancer research.

Cruise for a Cause’s biggest event of the year is the annual Fall Ford Fest held the first weekend in October and features a car show, car parade, auction, and other activities in Wisconsin Dells. The event draws thousands of Ford lovers and people who want to continue the fight against breast cancer. The annual golf outing will move in 2026 to a separate event Sept. 14 at Greenwood Hills Country Club in Wausau.

“Cancer touches everybody, and we will continue to fight cancer one patient at a time, one family at a time,” said Marshfield Clinic oncologist/hematologist Dr. Adedayo Onitilo, who is one of the leading cancer researchers in Wisconsin.

Marshfield Clinic Research Institute Executive Director and Chief Research Officer Dr. Jennifer Meece said critical cancer research takes place in Wisconsin communities that can benefit cancer patients across the world.

“The latest treatment options for cancer, research studies and clinical trials are being worked on by our physicians and scientists in Marshfield, Weston, Minocqua Eau Claire and other communities,” Meece said. “The fight against cancer is taking place in our backyard and Marshfield Clinic Research Institute is a key component.”

Learn more about Cruise for a Cause and its many events and fundraisers across the country at https://cruise4acause.org/.

“Dan and Linda Neve have an unparalleled passion for fundraising and providing hope to all affected by cancer,” said Anna Selk, Marshfield Clinic Foundation special events officer. “We are incredibly grateful to them and their generous supporters for their local support of cancer research.”

Visit https://www.marshfieldclinic.org/giving to learn more about cancer fundraising events and others ways you can give to support rural health care.

Marshfield Clinic Research Institute continues tick collection this fall

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 13:44:09 GMT

Many Wisconsinites are headed outdoors to enjoy the beautiful fall weather, either hiking, hunting, or apple and pumpkin picking. But while the peak of tick season has passed, ticks are still active.

Marshfield Clinic Research Institute’s Tick Inventory via Citizen Science (TICS) has identified more than 5,400 ticks sent by Wisconsin residents this year. TICS researchers are still asking you to contribute any ticks you may find.

“In 2024, the first year of the TICS study, we saw a surge of tick submissions in October,” said Alexandra Linz, Marshfield Clinic Research Institute associate research scientist. “These were often deer ticks, which are the ones that primarily carry disease in Wisconsin.”

Of the ticks collected, about 3,500 or more than 65% are the American dog (wood) tick and the majority of the remainder are the deer (blacklegged) tick. Much of that difference is likely due to the larger wood ticks being easier to spot than the smaller deer ticks.

“The deer tick’s small size and greater likelihood of carrying illnesses like Lyme disease is what makes it critical to perform tick checks after spending time in wooded or brushy areas,” Linz said. “Just because the weather is cooler, doesn’t mean that ticks aren’t active.”

The influx of ticks discovered during the first two years of the study – nearly 12,000 ticks submitted – allowed the research team to detect much rarer species in Wisconsin, including 21 lone star ticks. The lone star tick causes Alpha-gal Syndrome, also known as the meat allergy, and it’s a species of concern that is being found more often in the Midwest.

Hunters can help, request a kit

If you’re out hunting, you can check your kills for ticks and contribute those as well. You’ll likely spot ticks near the eyes or ears, and it’s best to check as soon as possible as the ticks will start detaching as the body cools.

Boxes of kits are also available at Rib Mountain State Park, the George Mead Wildlife Area Education Center, Castlerock Veterinary in Marshfield, and many Marshfield Clinic locations.

TICS will continue collecting ticks until winter ends tick activity for the year.

National Farm Medicine Center to host drawing for free tractor rollbar retrofit at Marshfield Parish Pull

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 18:55:36 GMT

Tractor overturns are the leading cause of farm-related deaths. That’s why it’s so important that each tractor have a rollover protective structure (ROPS).

Thanks to a generous gift from the Marshfield Parish Truck & Tractor Pull, the National Farm Medicine Center, part of Marshfield Clinic Research Institute, will award a free ROPS retrofit in a drawing Friday, July 11, during the 12^th annual Pull at Central Wisconsin State Fairgrounds. All Wisconsin farmers are eligible. Just stop by the National Farm Medicine Center table on the Midway between the hours of 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. on July 11. The winner will be announced around 9 pm.

One lucky tractor owner will get the free ROPS, and all who register will be enrolled in the National Farm Medicine Center Wisconsin ROPS Rebate Program, which (funding permitting) partially reimburses owners toward the total cost of purchasing, shipping and installing individual ROPS. Enrollees will be mailed retrofit options and costs for their particular tractor.

In addition, Farm Medicine and the Research Institute will sponsor the “Ice Cream Dash” between 8 p.m. and 9 p.m. in the stands and in the pit area. Proceeds from the Ice Cream Dash will be dedicated to the Wisconsin ROPS Rebate Program.

A ROPS is an operator compartment structure (usually cab or rollbar) intended to protect farmers from injuries caused by overturns or rollovers. More than half the tractors in Wisconsin do not have this protection. ROPS did not become standard on U.S.-manufactured tractors until 1985. A ROPS, when used with a seatbelt, is 99 percent effective in preventing injury or death in the event of an overturn. Tractor owners can also register for a ROPS rebate via the national hotline, 1-877-767-7748 (1-877-ROPSR4U), or the Web site, www.ropsr4u.com. Either way, the owner provides basic information about his or her farm and tractors. Program staff do all the leg work.

Parish Pull attendees are also encouraged to visit the Tick Inventory via Citizen Science (TICS) project table that night, where they can get tick collection kits and add to the more than 6,000 ticks already registered. TICS project information is being used to assess the risk of encountering a tickborne disease, and to learn more about who is being exposed and diagnosed with tickborne diseases. Also be sure to pick up one of the new (free) tick removal kits.

Marshfield Clinic to host recruitment event in Merrill for National Cancer Institute Research study

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 17:47:16 GMT

MERRILL, WI – Marshfield Clinic is actively recruiting in the Merrill area for participants to join the National Cancer Institute (NCI) Connect for Cancer Prevention Study (Connect).

NCI is part of the National Institutes of Health. Connect is designed to explore the causes of cancer and learn more about how to prevent it. Marshfield Clinic is one of several health care systems across the country participating in this cutting-edge research. Together, these health care systems and the NCI seek to recruit 200,000 eligible adults to participate in the study. As of June 1, Marshfield Clinic has enrolled more than 5,000 participants in Connect.

Marshfield Clinic is offering a special opportunity to patients in the Merrill area and will host upcoming Connect enrollment sessions 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on June 24-25 and July 30-31at Marshfield Clinic Merrill Center, 1205 O’Day St.

During enrollment sessions, patients can sign up for Connect and donate their first samples for the study. Current participants who haven’t yet donated samples for Connect are also welcome to stop by to do so. The team looks forward to meeting patients interested in learning more about the study and saying hello to current participants.

“Marshfield Clinic aims to recruit 11,000 patients who are between the ages of 30 and 70 and have no personal history of cancer to participate in this important study,” said Robert Greenlee, Ph.D., M.P.H., the Connect principal investigator and senior research scientist at Marshfield Clinic Research Institute. “The burden of cancer on our communities and families remains very high. Connect will create a platform of research for years to come that we expect will reduce this burden by uncovering ways to prevent cancer, detect it earlier when it’s more treatable, and improve the health of cancer survivors.”

Marshfield Clinic has seven regular centers for patients to join Connect and donate samples for the study in Marshfield, Lake Hallie, Weston, Wisconsin Rapids, Rice Lake, Stevens Point and Minocqua. Enrollment sessions at other Marshfield Clinic locations will be scheduled periodically.

Connect is a long-term scientific endeavor. It takes time to observe and understand the causes and natural history of cancer, so participants are asked to take part in Connect for many years. They will be asked to complete online health surveys a few times a year and to donate samples of blood, urine, and saliva every two to three years. Safeguards for privacy and confidentiality are in place to protect participants’ data and biological samples.

“Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the U.S. While much progress in treatments has been made, the number of people who will develop cancer is expected to rise in the next 10 years as the population ages and lifestyles and behaviors change,” said Stephen J. Chanock, M.D., Director of NCI’s Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics (DCEG). “Connect will identify novel and emerging exposures that may affect cancer risk and improve our ability to predict cancer. The goal of this study is to change the future of cancer prevention.”

Through Connect, researchers hope to identify factors that could affect cancer risk and other health outcomes. These findings have the potential to influence public health and cancer prevention guidance for years to come. Participants in Connect will be a part of a community of people from different backgrounds to ensure everyone can benefit from the discoveries and learn about cancer prevention along the way.

To learn more about Connect, visit cancer.gov/connectstudy.

Recognizing the significance of clinical trials

Fri, 23 May 2025 19:27:21 GMT

While the path to working on clinical trials is not always obvious, the importance of these trials is clear.

The Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP) celebrates Clinical Trials Day annually on May 20 to recognize the accomplishments related to clinical trials and the people behind them. ACRP is the only non-profit organization solely dedicated to representing, supporting, and advocating for clinical research professionals.

For Anna Wilson, an oncology clinical research coordinator based at Eau Claire Cancer Center, the importance of clinical trials is personal.

“My family, myself included, have had a string of really bad luck when it comes to being diagnosed with cancer,” Wilson said. “What I found fascinating is that every treatment we were on, started because of a clinical trial.”

Clinical trials come in many different forms. That’s why Wilson and her colleagues screen every patient who has been diagnosed with cancer for a clinical trial. They also look at patients who are progressing through and finished their treatments for different types of trials. For example, Marshfield Clinic participates in trials that look at how to guide a patient through the financial aspects of cancer.

Tahlia L. Weis, M.D., Ph.D., had a much different route to a career in health care and research. While earning her master’s in chemistry, she was recruited for her first research project who wanted her to use Raman spectroscopy for cataloguing art pieces. Dr. Weis volunteered at a number of health institutions after completing her master’s in chemistry and discovered her calling to health care.

She finished her doctorate before entering medical school where she became enamored with vascular surgery. Working with patients, pathology and the advancing technology is what drew her to that specialty.

“Engaging in clinical trials research fills a bucket for me,” said Dr. Weis, who serves as Service Line Medical Director for Cardiovascular Services. “I have a personal drive to be more than an excellent surgeon. I want to contribute to advancing my field.”

Dr. Weis is in the early stages of a clinical trial involving covered endovascular reconstruction of the aortic bifurcation (CERAB), a minimally invasive procedure providing relief for patients with aortoiliac occlusive disease. A stent graft is placed within the aorta and extends into the iliac arteries to bypass blocked areas.

She also was involved in a trial that resulted in a new treatment for patients with peripheral artery disease, which affects more than eight million people annually, who face increased risk of heart attack or stroke. The Shockwave Javelin Peripheral Intravascular Lithotripsy (IVL) Catheter uses shockwaves, instead of traditional balloon-based catheters to modify calcium and cross narrowed vessels. This technology is now available nationally, as well as at Marshfield Clinic.

“Without participating in studies that advance our field, we lose out on being able to treat the populations with the greatest evidence-based needs,” Dr. Weis said. “It’s important to deliver world-class health care in a rural environment.”

For Wilson, giving every patient hope or an opportunity to contribute to future treatments is important.

"I have had the opportunity to have meaningful interactions with each of our clinical trial patients," Wilson said. “Collaborating with the patient and the patient’s family is a wonderful privilege. Many of our patients agree to be treated on a clinical trial, because they know their participation will help future patients with a cancer diagnoses.”

Infectious disease epidemiologist Dr. Edward Belongia retires

Thu, 15 May 2025 14:10:37 GMT

Any discussion about vaccine safety over the past three decades within Marshfield Clinic Health System – and in many parts of the United States – included the research and work of Marshfield Clinic physician and global expert on flu vaccine effectiveness Edward Belongia, M.D.

Dr. Belongia, an infectious disease epidemiologist and senior research scientist, retired May 15 after nearly 30 years at Marshfield Clinic Research Institute.

“I loved my job and the people I worked with,” Dr. Belongia said. “Our vaccine and infectious disease research team has never been stronger. The scope and complexity of our research has grown over the past two decades, and our scientific teams have expanded. We have become nationally recognized for our research in respiratory virus epidemiology, vaccine safety, and vaccine effectiveness. For me, it’s been a rewarding journey, and this seems like good time to pass the torch to the next generation.”

Dr. Belongia earned his medical degree from Michigan State University and completed a residency in Internal Medicine at the University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics. He served in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Epidemic Intelligence Service from 1988-90, and subsequently worked in the sexually transmitted disease program at the Minnesota Department of Health.

As he found the job leaning toward administrative duties, the pull to get back into science and research grew strong. In 1995, Marshfield Medical Research Foundation was recruiting an epidemiologist, and this sounded like an interesting opportunity to build an infectious disease research program in a rural setting. Dr. Kurt Reed was a pathologist here at that time with a strong research interest, and he helped Dr. Belongia get started with funding for tickborne disease research.

“At first, I thought we might only stay in Marshfield for a few years, but I quickly discovered this was a great place to work and pursue a research career,” he said. “It was also a wonderful place to raise a family. We always had a collaborative learning environment, which I think contributed to our success. I’m grateful to the Research Institute, Marshfield Clinic and the community for supporting this work over the past 30 years.”

Small town, big research

While most research institutions are affiliated with major universities in large cities, MCRI has stood out with its small-town roots. When the CDC was looking for an institution to conduct a field study on flu vaccine, Marshfield Clinic was up for the task.

“The expertise and hard work of a large multi-disciplinary team is critical for success, and we have that in Marshfield,” said Dr. Belongia, who served as director of MCRI’s Center for Clinical Epidemiology and Population Health (CCEPH) for many years. “We have talented people with a strong commitment to research, and they are willing to go the extra mile to meet grant deadlines and tight timelines for study execution.

“At the time we applied for the CDC flu grant, we had never done vaccine effectiveness research. We convinced the CDC review panel that this little place in the middle of Wisconsin could do it, and I’m sure we had some high-profile competition. And we delivered on our promise with 18 seasons of flu vaccine effectiveness data, including a pandemic in 2009.”

The Research Institute provided the only U.S. data on flu vaccine effectiveness from 2004-08 and was the first to provide in-season estimates on how the flu vaccine was working based on Marshfield data. Although the CDC funding for vaccine effectiveness has now ended, CCEPH has continued this work with industry-funded research on vaccine effectiveness and respiratory virus epidemiology.

In 2014, Dr. Belongia was selected to serve a four-year term on the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), a national committee tasked with developing recommendations on how to use immunizations to control disease. ACIP’s recommendations have a major impact on vaccine priorities and usage in children and adults that influences national policy.

Making research count

Dr. Belongia’s guiding principal in research is consequential epidemiology – research that ‘makes a difference’ for public health or patient care. For example, Marshfield vaccine effectiveness research led to the discovery that the live flu vaccine was not working in children during the 2014-15 and 2015-16 seasons. As a result, ACIP withdrew the recommendation for use of the live vaccine until the problem was eventually fixed by the manufacturer.

Dr. Belongia was the Marshfield the local principal investigator for the Vaccine Safety Datalink (VSD), a CDC-funded network that monitors the safety of vaccines using electronic health records from more than 15 million people. For over 20 years, MCRI has contributed to many vaccine safety studies, including near-real time monitoring to assess the safety of COVID-19, influenza, and RSV vaccines. The RSV safety analysis is being led by Marshfield investigators.

“The CDC doesn’t need Marshfield to increase the size of the study population, but they appreciate and value the scientific expertise that we bring to the table,” he said. “The vaccine safety results are shared with ACIP and FDA, and this informs vaccine policy decisions. It’s a great example of consequential epidemiology – safety concerns are addressed in a thorough and transparent manner.”

One of the many things he appreciated about his career was Marshfield Clinic’s willingness to embrace research as part of its mission and allowing him and other MCRI staff to do research that was public health focused.

“A lot of health care organizations focus mostly on clinical studies, and that’s very important. But the Marshfield Clinic also supported broader public health research – how to keep people out of the clinic and the hospital,” Belongia said. “They have a true commitment to community health. I really appreciated that.”

With retirement here, Dr. Belongia is looking forward to spending more time with his family, travel, volunteering and outdoor activities. But he will always keep an eye on what’s happening in the world of vaccines and respiratory virus research.

“Compared to when I started, we are now asking more difficult questions and the science to answer those questions is more sophisticated,” he said. “What hasn’t changed is the commitment to excellence, teamwork and doing consequential epidemiology. The people I’ve had the good fortune to work with were supportive, talented and committed to world class epidemiology research. The research funding environment is challenging right now, but I know our scientists and teams can compete with the best. I’m very excited to see how things develop.”

Marshfield Clinic Research Institute releases 2024 Year in Review

Thu, 08 May 2025 14:44:36 GMT

The everyday nature of the work conducted by Marshfield Clinic Research Institute scientists and staff is collaborative, so when it came time to pick a theme for the 2024 MCRI Year in Review, the concept of teamwork was a natural choice.

The 2024 Year in Review highlights not only the scientifically important work, lofty achievements and notable accomplishments, but how those highlights were achieved in a collaborative effort.

“In the 2024 Year in Review, you will learn first-hand how our people, working together, bring out the best in each other,” said Marshfield Clinic Research Institute Executive Director Jennifer Meece, Ph.D. “You will see the impact of our work, the value of science and medicine, and the greatness of our research.”

Stories include:

Clinical trials involving cardiac care, oncology and rare diseases
The role of microbiome and farm health
MCRI’s partnership with University of Wisconsin-Madison via the Institute for Clinical and Translational Research
Local studies into respiratory illness
Trauma data analysis
Providing care to veterans
Using REDCap (Research Electronic Data Capture) for clinical research and database creation
Impact of donors on research

“It’s fun to look back at what we accomplished last year and see how research has made a difference in the communities Marshfield Clinic serves,” Meece said. “Knowing the work we’ve already accomplished in 2025 and the potential for collaboration with our new colleagues at Sanford Health gives me great optimism about our research institute contributing even more to the scientific and medical world as well as our patients.”

Also check out MCRI’s National Farm Medicine Center Year in Review published earlier this year for a summary of the activities for the National Farm Medicine Center and National Children’s Center for Rural and Agricultural Health and Safety.

Marshfield Clinic Research Institute seeks ticks for second year of study

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 15:18:47 GMT

Marshfield Clinic Research Institute is once again asking Wisconsin residents to send in ticks they find while working and recreating outside this year.

In 2024, the Research Institute launched the Tick Inventory via Citizen Science (TICS) in an effort to identify the ticks that are found in the state. This information can be used to assess risk of encountering a tickborne disease and to learn more about who is being exposed and diagnosed with tickborne diseases.

Over 6,000 ticks from all nearly every Wisconsin county were submitted in 2024.

Of the ticks collected in 2024, about 4,200 or more than 70% were the American dog (wood) tick and the majority of the remainder were the deer (blacklegged) tick. Much of that difference is likely due to the larger wood ticks being easier to spot than the smaller deer ticks.

Deer ticks carry pathogens that may cause diseases such as Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, ehrlichiosis, and babesiosis. The large number of ticks submitted allowed the research team to detect an influx of ticks from typically warmer climates, including the lone star tick that spreads ehrlichiosis and could cause Alpha-gal Syndrome (also known as the meat allergy), and Brown dog ticks that spread Rocky Mountain spotted fever.

“With new tick species becoming more prevalent in Wisconsin, the risk for potential newly introduced diseases increases,” Meece said. “We are trying to determine the extent and significance of this spread and the potential health effects.”

Request a kit

Tick collection kits are available at the George Mead Wildlife Area Education Center, Castlerock Veterinary in Marshfield, and many Marshfield Clinic locations.

Once the tick, dead or alive, has been placed in the collection kit, just drop it in the mail to submit using the provided kits. Any tick found on people or pets is appreciated. Each kit will come with a unique identification number that people can use to look up, via an online dashboard, the species of ticks they submitted.

New this year inside the kit will be additional survey questions. Optional questions include the types of precautions the person is taking to avoid ticks, if they’ve ever been diagnosed with a tickborne disease and if the Research Institute can follow up with the person for potential future studies.

“We are interested in learning more about the diseases and how they affect people,” Meece said. “Tick-borne diseases are complex to diagnose, and sometimes, complex to treat. Having a better understanding of the people affected can better help us in future research.”

Tick submissions from all over Wisconsin is encouraged, regardless of if the person is a Marshfield Clinic patient.

Serious health consequences

Symptoms of illnesses resulting from a tick bite can include rash, fever, joint pain, and fatigue. Contact your medical provider if you have these symptoms.

“Lyme disease is by far the most common tick-borne illness in Wisconsin. Testing is important, because early treatment is highly effective in preventing later stages of the disease from developing,” said Dr. Thomas Boyce, a pediatric infectious disease physician with Marshfield Clinic Health System. “If you remove a deer tick that is attached and engorged, a single dose of an antibiotic (doxycycline) can reduce the risk of contracting Lyme disease ten-fold (from 3% to 0.3%).”

To reduce the risk of tick bites, spray insecticide such as permethrin on clothing, sleeping bags, and tent fabric. Wear clothing that covers your skin. Finally, have someone help you check for ticks after time spent outdoors.

Marshfield Clinic Research Institute led lab testing for investigation into the largest known U.S. blastomycosis outbreak at Michigan paper mill

Mon, 30 Dec 2024 21:15:21 GMT

MARSHFIELD, WI – Marshfield Clinic Research Institute tested nearly 500 environmental samples during the multi-state, multi-agency investigation into the largest known blastomycosis outbreak in the United States, which sickened workers at an Escanaba, Michigan paper mill and resulted in one death.

In March 2023, a cluster of atypical pneumonia cases, many of which were attributed to mill workers at the Billerud paper mill in Escanaba, was reported to the local health department. Investigators from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), working with public health partners, facilitated blastomycosis case-finding through a medical survey and conducted an environmental assessment. A survey of 645 mill workers showed that 162 people (25%) were identified with blastomycosis between Nov. 1, 2022, and May 15, 2023, according to a study published online Dec. 30 in the CDC’s weekly Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. Overall, an estimated 20% of workers at the paper mill in Michigan tested positive for blastomycosis.

Blastomycosis is a rare infectious disease caused by inhalation of Blastomyces fungal spores from the environment. Blastomyces is found in moist soil or decaying wood and leaves, often near rivers and lakes. Blastomycosis incubates over a two-week to three-month period and pulmonary illness is most common, ranging from mild, respiratory symptoms to severe, potentially fatal pneumonia.

Blastomycosis is an endemic and reportable disease in Michigan with 186 cases reported between 2007-2017. Blastomycosis does not spread from person to person.

Jennifer Meece, Ph.D., is the executive director of Marshfield Clinic Research Institute and has researched blastomycosis for more than 20 years, investigating outbreaks throughout the Midwest. She said it’s critical to launch a comprehensive investigation as soon as possible when clusters of potential blastomycosis cases are reported.

“Blastomycosis is difficult to diagnose because its symptoms often mimic other respiratory illnesses, like pneumonia, making it hard to distinguish clinically,” Meece said. “Diagnosis requires seeing the fungus in tissue samples through a culture or microscope. It’s important for patients to begin treatment with antifungal medication as soon as possible, and to attempt to find the source of the exposure to prevent others from inhaling the spores.”

Digging into the cause of the outbreak

In addition to being the largest blastomycosis outbreak ever reported in the U.S., this was the first associated with a paper mill or other industrial worksite. The mill’s location along a riverway in a wooded environment is consistent with Blastomyces habitat. Blastomyces typically does not propagate indoors; the spores potentially entered the building through unfiltered ventilation systems, open doors, and caused the exposure over several months.

Meece and her team of researchers were asked to join the Escanaba outbreak investigation based on their past experience researching public health outbreaks. Their previous blastomycosis work included looking at people who have certain racial and ethnic backgrounds and may need more aggressive treatment and closer monitoring.

Marshfield Clinic Research Institute and the Wisconsin State Laboratory of Hygiene analyzed environmental samples for Blastomyces by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and culture for identification. Environmental samples collected included soil, wood chips, indoor surface dust, and water, dust, duct lining and filters from HVAC systems. Among 533 indoor and outdoor samples analyzed, no Blastomyces was detected and the specific environmental factors in or around the mill that led to this outbreak remain unknown.

“This was not an unexpected outcome as Blastomyces is an elusive organism,” Meece said. “It is rare, if not unheard of, that the exact source of a blastomycosis outbreak has ever been detected in the environment.”

More education can lead to quicker public health response

While many people who recreate in areas where blastomycosis is endemic are aware of the disease, this first-time outbreak at an industrial business opens new potential risks for exposure. Health care providers and public health authorities should consider work-related exposure to Blastomyces to detect future outbreaks and implement public health interventions quickly. Industries with workers who routinely work outdoors in the midwestern and southeastern United States should consider providing worker training and education to enhance awareness of Blastomyces.

For more information on fungal diseases, visit https://www.cdc.gov/fungal/index.html.

Cruise for a Cause donates $175,700 to Marshfield Clinic Research Institute for breast cancer research

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 16:01:37 GMT

MARSHFIELD – Pittsville native Dan Neve and his family are all too familiar with breast and other cancer diagnoses.

In 2010 while his wife, Linda, was undergoing treatment for breast cancer, he decided to combine his passion for cars and desire to fight back against breast cancer. Cruise for a Cause was launched. Traveling the country in his Mustang Shelby GT 500 to car shows, auto races, and countless other events, Neve has raised more than a $1.3 million for cancer research. Dan himself underwent kidney cancer surgery in February just three weeks prior to attending his first event in Tennessee.

On Dec. 4, Dan and Linda met with more than 100 researchers, physicians and scientists at Marshfield Clinic Research Institute and presented a $175,730 check to fund cancer research within Marshfield Clinic Health System. He said that Cruise for a Cause’s mission statement of ‘Delivering hope where we go” also relates to them.

“Delivering hope should be in each of your job descriptions, because I truly believe that is what you do,” Dan Neve said. “You give others hope with the jobs that you all do. You gave Linda and I hope 14 years ago. You gave hope to Linda’s two sisters who lost their fights with breast cancer and you give hope to her youngest sister who is undergoing chemo treatments as she begins her journey with breast cancer.”

Cruise for a Cause’s biggest event of the year is the annual Fall Ford Fest held the first weekend in October and features a car show, car parade, auction, golf outing and other activities in Wisconsin Dells. The event draws thousands of Ford lovers and people who want to continue the fight against breast cancer.

“Cancer touches everybody, and we will continue to fight cancer one patient at a time, one family at a time,” said oncologist/hematologist Dr. Adedayo Onitilo, who is one of the leading cancer researchers in Wisconsin.

Learn more about Cruise for a Cause and its many events and fundraisers across the country at https://cruise4acause.org/.

“Dan and Linda Neve have an unparalleled passion for fundraising and providing hope to all affected by cancer,” said Tiffany Halan, Director of Marshfield Clinic Health System Foundation Operations. “We are incredibly grateful to them and their generous supporters for their local support of cancer research.”

Visit https://www.marshfieldclinic.org/giving to learn more about cancer fundraising events and others ways you can give to support rural health care.

Marshfield Clinic seeks volunteers for a community study of common respiratory illnesses and gastroenteritis in Marshfield area

Tue, 03 Dec 2024 16:01:40 GMT

MARSHFIELD – Respiratory and diarrheal illnesses are common, but doctors rarely know which germ is responsible. Some of these illnesses can be treated or prevented by vaccination. Volunteers are needed to help researchers understand how often people develop respiratory illness or diarrhea, and to identify the germs that are making them sick.

The PACC-ER study will enroll about 1,500 people of all ages for up to two years. So far, more than 700 people have signed up, but hundreds more are needed to reach the enrollment target by the end of this year. The study is led by Marshfield Clinic Research Institute research scientists Huong Nguyen and Joshua Petrie. 

“Most of us remember getting sick with cough, cold or flu symptoms or a stomach bug,” Nguyen said. “These illnesses can make you feel miserable and prevent you from going to work or school. This study will provide much needed information on the frequency and causes of these illnesses in the community.” She also noted that study results will help guide vaccine development and aid doctors who are taking care of patients with respiratory illness or gastroenteritis.

Volunteers will fill out a brief survey each week to let the study team know if they are sick or not. Volunteers will collect and mail back a nose swab when they have cough, cold or flu symptoms or a stool sample when they have a stomach bug. These samples will be tested for different germs, and participants will be told if they have influenza, COVID-19, or respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Blood and saliva samples will also be collected to measure immune responses. There will be three study visits for blood collection: at enrollment, during summer 2025, and during summer 2026. Some participants may be asked to complete additional study visits with blood collection after vaccination or illness. Children under 5 years old can participate in the study without any blood or saliva collection. Participants may receive between $228 and $378, depending on how long they are in the study and which activities are done. Extra payment will be given to those who complete extra activities.

“People in central Wisconsin are always willing to help out friends and neighbors and support the community,” Petrie said. “This is a wonderful opportunity for Marshfield-area residents to participate in science that is community-focused. It’s quite rare for a large research study like this to take place in a rural midwestern setting. This is big-time infectious disease research that will be used at the national level.”  

More than 18,000 study invitation letters were sent to Marshfield-area children and adults. The study team needs your help to reach enrollment targets. Interested people are encouraged to contact the study team to see if they are eligible to volunteer. The study is open to invited people who live in the following communities: Abbotsford, Arpin, Auburndale, Hewitt, Marshfield, Milladore, Pittsville, Sherry, Spencer, Stratford, Rangeline, Rozellville and Unity. Children under 5 years old may also be eligible if they live in other communities near the study area.

To learn more about the PACC-ER Study or volunteer, visit https://marshfieldresearch.org/pacc, call 800-468-9700 or email pacc@marshfieldresearch.org. The study is funded by Moderna, Inc.

Marshfield Clinic Research Institute continues tick collection this fall

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 17:50:51 GMT

Many Wisconsinites are headed outdoors to enjoy the beautiful fall weather, either hiking, hunting, or apple and pumpkin picking. But while the peak of tick season has passed, ticks are still active.

Marshfield Clinic Research Institute’s Tick Inventory via Citizen Science (TICS) has identified more than 5,400 ticks sent by Wisconsin residents since the study opened in April. TICS researchers are still asking you to contribute any ticks you may find.

“We often see a second peak of deer ticks in the fall, which are the ones that primarily carry disease in Wisconsin,” said Alexandra Linz, Marshfield Clinic Research Institute associate research scientist.

The study was first launched in central Wisconsin with the hope to receive a few hundred ticks. So far, the participation in TICS has exceeded expectations. Of the ticks collected, about 4,200 or more than 75% are the American dog (wood) tick and the majority of the remainder are the deer (blacklegged) tick. Much of that difference is likely due to the larger wood ticks being easier to spot than the smaller deer ticks.

The influx of ticks allowed the research team to detect much rarer species in Wisconsin, including 13 lone star ticks. The lone star tick causes Alpha-gal Syndrome, also known as the meat allergy, and it’s a species of concern that is being found more often in the Midwest.

Hunters can help, request a kit

Boxes of kits are also available at Rib Mountain State Park, the George Mead Wildlife Area Education Center, Castlerock Veterinary in Marshfield, and many Marshfield Clinic locations.

TICS will continue collecting ticks until winter ends tick activity for the year.

Marshfield cancer care research model shared as part of presentation in Nigeria

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 17:47:38 GMT

While Marshfield Clinic Health System is widely regarded across the United States for its role in oncology research, that level of expertise also is a tool for helping oncologists across the world. Oncology Service Line Medical Director Adedayo Onitilo, M.D., Ph.D.; returns annually to Nigeria to share his knowledge and experience to make oncology care and research more collaborative in his home country.

Dr. Onitilo was a featured speaker this month on the role of clinical trials at the Association of Radiation & Clinical Oncologists in Nigeria (ACON) 7^th Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference held at the University of Ibadan. The theme of the conference was Cancer Control In Nigeria: Actions For Impact. His seminars and presentations focused on the theme of scaling up oncology clinical trials in Nigeria. As a practicing oncologist/hematologist, Dr. Onitilo also serves in administrative roles including medical director of Marshfield Clinic Research Institute’s Cancer Care and Research Center.

"Every time I travel abroad, I'm enriched by the experiences and insights shared by colleagues from diverse backgrounds,” Dr. Onitilo said. “It’s fascinating to see how different cultural perspectives and resource availability shape the practice of medicine. I've come to realize that there’s a distinct difference between practicing the 'best possible medicine' and the ‘best medicine possible.’ The former refers to ideal standards, while the latter acknowledges the creative adaptations and resourceful solutions that healthcare professionals employ to deliver exceptional care despite limitations."

This chance encounter demonstrated the power of kindness and encouragement, transcending borders and continents. A simple conversation in central Wisconsin had a ripple effect, inspiring a new generation of oncologists in Nigeria.

“Many sub-Saharan countries face significant challenges in conducting and accessing oncology clinical trials,” Dr. Onitilo said. “Controlled resources, infrastructure, and research capacity hinder trial initiation and participation. Additionally, many global trials exclude African populations, leading to a lack of diversity in research data. This gap necessitates localized research efforts to address Nigeria's unique cancer profile.”

Marshfield Clinic served as a model for his presentation, as he discussed a wide range of clinical trial topics including trial design, best practices, patient selection, informed consent, operations, regulatory compliance and trial case studies. Many of the attendees had questions about how they can establish and manage clinical trials internationally, the potential for accessing international collaborative opportunities, developing research capacity and training for healthcare professionals, and joining industry-sponsored clinical trials.

“As a health care professional, I am driven by a global passion for improving cancer care,” Dr. Onitilo said. “With its vast population and growing cancer burden, Nigeria presents an opportunity to make a meaningful impact. My personal connection stems from recognizing the dedication and resilience of health care professionals across the African continent who often face significant challenges in delivering care. By supporting their efforts, I hope to contribute to better patient outcomes and a stronger health care system.”

Team effort for global message

A huge team effort was required to put together material that captured Marshfield Clinic’s quality integrated care and research program for Dr. Onitilo’s presentation. He credited Health System leaders Interim CEO Brian Hoerneman, M.D.; Chief Medical Officer Samantha Klebe, D.O.; and MCRI Chief Research Officer/Executive Director Jennifer Meece, Ph.D. for their support.

Assistance for the presentation from MCRI included Brooke Tesmer, Wendy Schumacher, Maria Rozumialski, Barbie Gildenzopf, Allyssa Peterson, Kim Meissner, Michelle Wellsandt, Deanna Cole and Krystal Boese.

Dr. Onitilo also shared his appreciation for conference organizers and partners who facilitated logistics and coordination, clinical colleagues from participating institutions who shared insights and expertise, and international collaborators who provided valuable guidance and support. “I continue to be blessed by the ability to learn from colleagues on both sides of the Atlantic,” he said.

Help today, better future outcomes

Dr. Onitilo said the highlight of his trip was a heartwarming reunion with an oncologist whose career path was influenced by a conversation with his brother-in-law, a hospitalist he met in central Wisconsin years ago.

“I encouraged the hospitalist to consider oncology, and it was remarkable to learn that he, in turn, inspired his sister-in-law to pursue the same specialty,” Dr. Onitilo said. “This chance encounter demonstrated the power of kindness and encouragement, transcending borders and continents. A simple conversation in central Wisconsin had a ripple effect, inspiring a new generation of oncologists in Nigeria.”

Presentations like Dr. Onitilo’s and others that Health System providers and staff are holding in countries across the world are sharing Marshfield Clinic’s vision to innovate and define the future of health care for generations. Dr. Onitilo also is excited by the potential that our future partner, Sanford Health, has a global medicine section.

“Dr. Onitilo and teaching moments like this highlights our oncology service line and demonstrates how Marshfield Clinic trailblazes at a local, national and international level,” Dr. Meece said. “Our staff who have made a difference in providing care, treatment options and research with local patients, by extension, are now collaborating with colleagues across the world.”

The ARCON conference demonstrated the Nigerian medical community's eagerness to engage with global experts and advance cancer care. The momentum-sustaining goals moving forward include fostering ongoing collaborations and knowledge sharing, supporting capacity-building initiatives for healthcare professionals, and advocating for increased funding and resources for cancer research in Nigeria.

“Working together can bridge the gap in oncology clinical trials and improve patient outcomes in Nigeria,” Dr. Onitilo said. “I’m proud to take what we do at Marshfield Clinic Health System to provide world-class care and research for patients and share it on a global scale.”

Shukla named Sebold fellowship honoree

Fri, 30 Aug 2024 17:32:52 GMT

Sanjay K. Shukla, Ph.D., and director of Marshfield Clinic Research Institute's Center for Precision Medicine Research (CPMR), was named the recipient of the 2024 Gwen D. Sebold Fellowship.

The Gwen D. Sebold Fellowship recognizes an outstanding medical researcher and supports their research in their chosen field. Since its beginning in 1988, a financial award and a memorial plaque was presented by D. David “Dewey" Sebold in memory of his sister, Gwen. She joined Marshfield Clinic as a medical stenographer in 1955 and passed in July 1974.

Focus of the Gwen D. Sebold Fellowship is to recognize outstanding research investigators who are in early-stage to mid-stage of their scientific career and have demonstrated excellence in their scientific field. The recipient of the fellowship has the discretion to use a $7,500 monetary award in support of their research activities. This year's fellowship recipient will be celebrated on Oct. 9 in Marshfield.

“I am truly honored and humbled to receive the prestigious Sebold award," Dr. Shukla said. “Impactful research is a team-based enterprise and I have been fortunate to build teams with so many talented colleagues and collaborators to advance the science of medicine in a small way. I want to thank past and present MCHS and MCRI leaders for valuing and supporting research."

Dr. Shukla earned his bachelor's in biology from the University of Calcutta in India, followed by a master's in microbiology. He earned his PhD in 1996 from the University of Oklahoma in microbiology/molecular microbiology.

Dr. Shukla has been part of the Marshfield Clinic Research Institute for 25 years where he has become a world-renowned researcher and recognized for his team-building research. He has held the prestigious James Weber Endowed Chair since 2019.

A focus on the small things

Dr. Shukla is a broadly trained molecular microbiologist with a research focus on understanding genetic mechanisms of infectious and chronic diseases, particularly how the human or animal microbiome may play a role. His current research interests are focused on how any perturbations in niche-specific microbiome could modulate human health and enhance risks for autoimmune disease such as multiple sclerosis.

Early in his career, he was among the first to describe two new pathogens, Corynebacterium nigricans and Leptotrichia amnionii, now considered emerging pathogens. Dr. Shukla's special interests of research have always included topics such as Staphylococcus aureus, the pathogen, and its diseases particularly bacteremia, and oral and intestinal microbiome.

Out of his more than 110 peer-reviewed publications, over 50 are in the field of MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) and Staphylococcus aureus genetics, genomics, and epidemiology, where he has made several field-defining contributions. For example, he was among the first scientists to explore how genetic characteristics distinguish between community vs. healthcare-associated MRSA. He introduced the use of optical mapping to understand S. aureus genomics and has been invited to speak at several international conferences, including National Institutes of Health-sponsored conferences on MRSA.

Dr. Shukla was nominated by a collaborative of researchers from across the Institute. His co-workers credit him as a master in building multi-disciplinary teams to address complex scientific questions. In his recent CDC/NIOSH R01-funded study, he formed a team including a cultural anthropologist and a behavioral epidemiologist, to investigate the effect of occupational and environmental microbiome on gastrointestinal and respiratory issues in dairy farm workers. This work was among the first studies to show how the microbiome of cows and dairy workers are connected, and it culminated in a very recent publication in the prestigious journal, Nature Microbiology.

“He works to see where and how collaborative efforts can be mutually effective and potentially successful and productive," Richard Dart, M.D., a CPMR emeritus researcher wrote in the nomination letter. “He has been supportive of efforts to work with clinicians and residents which are vital to the integration of clinically relevant questions into research studies that can be addressed with the expertise and skill of the scientists within CPMR."

Dr. Stratman receives C. Todd Stewart Clinical Excellence Award

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 12:48:30 GMT

Erik J. Stratman, M.D., dermatologist at Marshfield Medical Center, was awarded the 2024 C. Todd Stewart Clinical Excellence Award at a recent Marshfield Clinic Health System Board meeting.

The award honors the legacy of Dr. Charles Todd Stewart, who served his patients and his community as a dedicated pediatric intensivist, passionate child advocate and visionary leader. Dr. Stewart died suddenly at age 48 while serving as Marshfield Clinic vice president. The Stewart family's Janet Stewart and Suzanne Wright, M.D., co-chair of the Stewart Award Committee, presented the award this year.

Dedication to MCHS, teaching and our patients

Dr. Stratman has been with the Health System for more than 20 years. He serves as Service Line medical director for Dermatology and is the Dermatology Resident Program Director. He is a member of many professional societies and has been involved in dozens of quality and safety committees for MCHS.

In a letter from a nominator, they stated, “Dr. Stratman is a true physician leader and takes the role very seriously. I have personally seen him teach residents and he is always calm and takes time to ensure his students understand and are competent in their abilities. He is highly respected throughout the system as the leading dermatologist and is often looked to for guidance and advice. Dr. Stratman is a man of highest integrity and his strength of character is evident in both his professional and personal accomplishments. Dr. Stratman believes very strongly in giving back to his community and has spent many years donating time and resource to improving the lives of our youth."

Dr. Stratman was noted to be extraordinarily committed to improving the lives of patients, especially showcased by the 2003 outbreak of Monkey Pox that impacted dozens of people in a local community.

“One of those pediatric patients saw Dr. Stratman and he immediately knew this was something never seen before. He took pictures of what he saw, and those photos are still used by the CDC today. With the help of other colleagues at MCHS, Dr. Stratman diagnosed the first cases of Monkey Pox. He and his team were able to lead the Nation in what to watch for, and his work paved the way to a better discovery of cases," the nomination read. “With the recent outbreak of Monkey Pox in the summer of 2022, Dr. Stratman continued to be consulted to evaluate possible cases."

A nod to outstanding commitment
The purpose of the C. Todd Stewart Clinical Excellence Award is to recognize an outstanding Health System provider for excellence in clinical care and service.

“It is a real privilege and joy to honor Todd and his commitment to excellence," Dr. Wright said in her presentation at the award ceremony. “During hard times, these [nomination] letters remind us of the joy of medicine, the art of medicine and the humanity of medicine."

The award shines light on Dr. Stratman's dedication to the mission, vision and values of the Health System.

“I do not believe there is anyone more deserving of this award than Dr. Erik Stratman. He provides the highest quality of care to each and every patient he serves. He is a family man that gives his heart and soul to the community he loves. We are so fortunate to have his superb clinical expertise while also being a pillar of the community," a nominator said.

Following his recognition, Dr. Stratman shared, “I am so humbled and honored to receive this award. Todd Stewart was a friend and colleague, and I am proud to receive this award named for him. He was not only a great clinician and teacher but also a great family man and great leader in times of corporate identity struggles. I think we can all strive to embrace Todd's commitment to the Clinic during challenging times and to clinical excellence. I would like to thank those who nominated me and all the other clinicians, and thanks to the selection committee."

Dr. Wright also shares her thanks for all who sent in a nomination and a congratulations to all 2024 nominees.

“It is such a delight and honor to see all the wonderful comments, to feel the appreciation and to witness the awe that you have inspired," she said.

View the list of 2024 nominees here.

Sanford Health and Marshfield Clinic Health System announce intent to combine, advance world-class care in rural Midwest

Thu, 11 Jul 2024 16:21:54 GMT

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. and MARSHFIELD, WIS. — Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the U.S., headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and Marshfield Clinic Health System, a physician-led integrated health system serving rural Wisconsin and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, today announced a nonbinding Memorandum of Understanding to combine their complementary assets and capabilities and create an integrated health system dedicated to advancing world-class care in the rural Midwest.

Both organizations share a rich history of delivering exceptional rural health care to the patients and communities they collectively serve.

“We are excited to combine our common purpose to lead the way for the future, drive innovation and solve the most pressing challenges facing rural health care,” said Bill Gassen, president and CEO of Sanford Health. “We are who we are today because of combinations with care delivery organizations in rural communities across America’s heartland. These opportunities have allowed us to follow through on our promise to deliver world-class health care to every patient we serve no matter their zip code, and we are eager to continue building on this track record with Marshfield Clinic Health System.”

The partnership will bring together two strong physician-driven organizations, each with a reputation for excellence in quality, safety and patient experience. Together, the combined organization will advance national leadership in physician-led integrated care; lead the way in research with an emphasis on underrepresented populations; foster a healthy operating performance; and put patients, people and communities at the forefront.

The combined nonprofit system will enable vital investment in the care of patients and communities across the rural Midwest to meet health care needs today and into the future. Over the last decade, Sanford Health has invested more than $1.5 billion in communities across South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota and Iowa including expanded access to specialty care and state-of-the-art facilities.

“Partnering with Sanford Health presents an incredible opportunity for our organizations to unify and establish the premier rural health system in the nation,” said Brian Hoerneman, M.D., interim CEO of Marshfield Clinic Health System. “Together, we will ensure sustainable access to exceptional care for our communities for years to come. With a shared mission to serve, a mutual emphasis on research and education, and a strong tradition of physician leadership, Sanford Health is the ideal partner for this endeavor.”

According to Marshfield Clinic Health System Board Chair George Brown, M.D.: “The partnership marks a new chapter in our organization, and we look forward to serving our patients as the nationwide leader in rural health care.”

Lauris Molbert, Chair of the Sanford Health Board of Trustees, added: “This partnership is a win-win for the patients and communities we serve, and for our organizations that have had a long tradition of innovation, physician leadership and dedicated caregivers. This combination will strengthen local, patient-centered nonprofit health care for generations to come.”

The nonprofit combination will:

Improve patient outcomes through broader population health initiatives, value-based care programs and new innovative care delivery models;
Harness the full promise of technology, including virtual care, digital health, data analytics, AI and genomic medicine to advance the health of communities;
Expand the breadth and depth of research capabilities, including increasing access to nearly 1,000 active clinical trials and clinical studies and combining research expertise to bring new treatments and cures to patients;
Expand capabilities that allow for greater investment in clinical needs, directly supporting patients, providers and communities;
Strengthen the ability to train, educate and support future physicians and caregivers through shared initiatives, including graduate medical education programs and strong partnerships with educational institutions throughout both regions; and
Create new opportunities for research and collaboration, robust peer networks and enhanced professional development and training.

The combined system will bring together nearly 56,000 employees, 56 hospitals, 4,300 providers, two fully integrated health plans, specialty pharmacies and nationally recognized research institutions.

Utilizing each organization’s respective health plan, Sanford Health Plan and Security Health Plan, will allow the fully integrated system to serve more than 425,000 members, maximizing the benefits it can deliver to patients and members through shared governance.

Upon finalization of the combination, the name of the parent company will be Sanford Health, with system headquarters in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.  Marshfield Clinic Health System will be a region within Sanford Health and maintain regional leadership with its flagship medical campus in Marshfield, Wisconsin, a regional board of directors, a regional physician executive council and regional brand presence. Sanford Health president and CEO Bill Gassen will serve as president and CEO of the combined system. Marshfield Clinic Health System interim CEO, Brian Hoerneman, M.D., will serve as president and CEO of the Marshfield Clinic Health System region.

The combination is expected to close by the end of the year, subject to regulatory processes and closing conditions. There are no immediate changes for employees or those each system serves. Sanford Health and Marshfield Clinic Health System remain two separate, independent organizations until the closing.

Joint Research Day confirms importance of collaboration

Thu, 11 Jul 2024 16:19:02 GMT

Roughly 150 miles separates Marshfield Clinic Research Institute from research colleagues at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, but the work they do together as two different organizations is as important as two lab partners sharing the same microscope.

The Research Institute hosted Joint Research Day June 28 with the Institute for Clinical and Translational Research (ICTR), a partnership with University of Wisconsin and six of its schools/colleges (Education, Engineering, Medicine & Public Health, Nursing, Pharmacy, and Veterinary Medicine). The partnership was created around building capacity in translational science by training the next generation of biomedical and behavioral scientists; providing investigators and clinicians with the next generation of critical resources including digital technology and data science; and creating novel solutions to disseminate disruptive innovations to improve healthcare practice.

A series of presentations and discussions held in Froehlke Auditorium on the Marshfield Medical Center campus at Joint Research Day showed how far the institutions have come in a few years of working together. Presentations were led by Robert Greenlee, Ph.D. (Cancer Prevention); Michelle Chui, Ph.D. (Practice-Based Research Networks); Jeffery VanWormer, Ph.D. (Primary Care for Optimizing Weight Reduction); Alexandra Linz, Ph.D. & Jennifer Meece, Ph.D. (Tick Study/Community Science); Casper Bendixsen, Ph.D. (EHR & Veterans Health Status); and Andrea Swenson, Ph.D. and Heidi Kolster, M.D. (Caregiver Stories: Family Perspectives on Children with Medical Complexity).

“It’s a true complementary synergy,” said UW’s Nasia Safdar, M.D., Ph.D., Director, Investigator-Initiated & Multisite Research. “We need each other, we feed off each other. We help each other and we collaborate together. There are lots of pathways we can grow together.”

The research presented at this event, along with formal and informal discussions among participants, demonstrated the progress UW and MCRI has made toward achieving ICTR’s goal to bring tangible results quickly that can improve the public’s health. Many challenges still exist, such as breaking barriers to collaboration and further integrating research into patient care.

“Today is where those two things meet; where research meets up with the healthcare system to try and improve the health of patients and the communities, we both serve,” said Dr. VanWormer, who also is Director of MCRI’s Center for Clinical Epidemiology & Population Health. “It’s all about finding good projects with good people who can take them to the finish line. We will only see more of that when we do events like this.”

REDCap Day highlights the uses of a powerful research tool

Thu, 11 Jul 2024 16:14:49 GMT

Marshfield Clinic Research Institute's Office of Research Computing and Analytics (ORCA) hosted REDCap Day on June 25, a day-long in-house conference dedicated to the premier online survey and data base tool for the research community.

REDCap is a powerful digital survey and database tool used by millions of people worldwide to manage research studies and operations. REDCap uses a secure web application for building and managing online surveys and databases. While REDCap can be used to collect virtually any type of data, it is specifically geared to support online or offline data capture for research studies and operations.

Eleven presentations featuring Research Institute staff and scientists educated about 60 participants, who appeared live in the Froehlke Auditorium or virtually, including participants from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and other REDCap community guests. Presentations highlighted the capabilities and uses of REDCap in many intriguing and insightful ways. Topics included using REDCap for automating trauma research, identifying potential study participants, importance of using alerts and notifications, building cohorts, and many others.

“This was our second REDCap Day we’ve hosted, and we’ve found it’s a great way to share comprehensive methods for using REDCap and provide updates on how it benefits our research,” said Leila Deering, application analyst specialist, and coordinator of the event. “This was a great opportunity to bring our teams together and strengthen our research collaborations with others in the REDCap community.”

Presenters included REDCap Community members from South Africa, Alex Linz, Ph.D.; Heather Rhodes, Ph.D.; Anna Schotthoefer, Ph.D.; Kaela Churchill, Kayla Hanson, and ORCA staff members Deering, Eric DeJarlais, Rachel Gabor, Chris Kadolph and Steff Roush.

Marshfield Clinic Research Institute continues to seek ticks collected from citizens as summer begins

Fri, 14 Jun 2024 17:02:56 GMT

As the first day of summer approaches on June 21 and summer holidays, vacations and outdoor activities hit high gear, scientists at Marshfield Clinic Research Institute are asking the public to submit ticks for the Tick Inventory via Citizen Science (TICS).

TICS was launched in April to survey the distribution of tick species in Wisconsin, including any new, invasive ticks that may be moving into Wisconsin. The response was phenomenal as citizens scooped up ticks they found in nature or crawling on themselves or their pets and sent them to the Research Institute in pre-paid collection kits. So far, scientists have identified more than 3,200 ticks submitted by citizens, most prominently the American dog (wood) tick and the deer (black-legged) tick.

Researchers also have identified nine brown dog ticks, which are most frequently found in the southern U.S. and five lone star ticks, mainly found in the southern and eastern U.S.

“The presence of brown dog and lone star ticks is intriguing as it may indicate spread from their typical habitats to Wisconsin,” said Alexandra Linz, Marshfield Clinic Research Institute associate research scientist. “We are trying to determine the extent and significance of this spread and the potential health effects.”

Ticks carry pathogens that may cause diseases such as Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, and babesiosis. With new tick species becoming more prevalent in Wisconsin, the risk for potential newly introduced diseases increases. Brown dog ticks spread Rocky Mountain spotted fever and lone star ticks spread ehrlichiosis, primarily in warmer U.S settings. Possibly because of climate change, the incidence of both conditions has increased three-fold in the last two decades.

“Residents who enjoy the outdoors and physicians need to be aware of these diseases and their symptoms,” said Jennifer Meece, Marshfield Clinic Research Institute executive director. “As researchers, the information from this study and future studies can help us improve disease prevention efforts and early detection as well as develop better diagnostic tools and treatments.”

Ticks still needed, request a kit

Prevention is key to avoid illness

The mild winter resulted in a bountiful tick population this spring, which means a greater chance of contracting a tick-borne illness. Symptoms of illnesses resulting from a tick bite can include rash, fever, joint pain, and fatigue. Contact your medical provider if you have these symptoms.