Public Health Clinical Services

• Preventive Health:

  • Early detection of hypertension or cardiovascular risks helps prevent more severe health issues later, making these screenings essential for proactive health management.

• Access to Healthcare Professionals:

  • Patients can interact with healthcare providers who can provide further advice, referrals, or follow-up plans based on results.

• Monitoring and Management:

  • • Regular screenings allow individuals to monitor their blood pressure trends, which is crucial for managing conditions effectively.

A blood lead test is the best way to find out if a child has lead poisoning. A child with lead poisoning may not have visible signs or symptoms. 

Testing your child for lead exposure is a proactive measure to protect their current and future health. It's part of a broader strategy to ensure child safety and community well-being. Understanding more about lead exposure sources and remediation techniques can further empower caregivers to act effectively against this risk.

• Early Detection of Lead Exposure:

  • Lead screening helps identify elevated lead levels before symptoms appear, allowing for early intervention to prevent further exposure and associated health problems.
  • Children are especially vulnerable to lead poisoning due to their developing bodies and tendency to put objects in their mouths.

• Preventing Developmental Delays:

  • Elevated lead levels can lead to cognitive impairments and developmental delays, affecting a child’s IQ, attention span, and academic achievement.
  • Catching lead exposure early can help mitigate these effects through timely medical or environmental interventions.

• Addressing Potential Long-Term Health Issues:

  • Lead exposure has been linked to serious health problems, including neurological damage, behavioral disorders, and learning disabilities.
  • Early screening and intervention help reduce long-term health risks and potential chronic conditions associated with lead poisoning.

• Identifying Environmental Risks:

  • Screening results can reveal if a child is exposed to lead sources in their environment, such as paint in older homes, contaminated soil, or lead pipes, prompting further investigation and removal efforts.
  • Addressing the environmental sources not only protects the screened child but also other community members.

• Public Health and Safety:

  • Identifying high lead levels in one child can lead to community-wide awareness and initiatives, promoting safer living conditions.
  • Tracking incidence rates helps us at Waukesha County Public Health devise strategies to combat and prevent lead exposure epidemics.

• Ensuring Safe Growth and Development:

  • Regular screening ensures parents and caregivers can maintain a safe environment conducive to healthy physical and mental development of their children.
  • Provides peace of mind for families, knowing potential risks are being monitored and managed. 
  • Click here for more information on our Childhood Lead Screening. 

12 Hour Fasting prior to appointment is recommended. 

Why Get a Lipid Panel?

• Comprehensive Analysis:

  • A lipid panel measures total cholesterol, LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein), HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein), and triglycerides, offering a thorough profile of your blood lipid levels.
  • Each component gives specific insights into different aspects of heart health and risk factors for cardiovascular disease.

• Identification of Risk Factors:

  • High LDL and triglyceride levels are risk factors for atherosclerosis and heart disease, while HDL is considered protective.
  • A detailed lipid panel helps in accurately assessing these risks and guiding prevention or treatment efforts.

• Guiding Treatment and Lifestyle Changes:

  • The detailed information guides physicians in prescribing medications, such as statins, or recommending lifestyle modifications.
  • It helps tailor strategies for managing cholesterol levels and maintaining heart health.

• Early Intervention and Monitoring:

  • Regular lipid panels can help in early detection of potential problems, making early intervention possible.
  • They also allow for monitoring the effectiveness of treatment or lifestyle changes over time.

Difference from Basic Cholesterol Screening

• Scope:

  • Basic cholesterol screening might only measure total cholesterol, offering a limited view of heart health.
  • A lipid panel provides a more complete picture, which is crucial for accurate risk assessment.

• Accuracy in Risk Stratification:

  • Without a full lipid panel, patients might not receive a complete assessment of their cardiovascular risk.
  • Several factors like the balance between LDL and HDL are crucial, which aren’t captured in a basic screen.

• Actionable Insights:

  • Lipid panels result in more personalized and effective health recommendations compared to basic checks.
  • It enables more targeted and informed discussions with healthcare providers about heart health strategies.

Opting for a lipid panel over just a basic screen allows for a comprehensive understanding of one’s heart health, aiding in precision-driven healthcare decisions. 

• Cardiovascular Health Monitoring:

  • High levels of cholesterol can lead to atherosclerosis, which is the buildup of fatty deposits in your blood vessels, potentially leading to heart disease and stroke.
  • Screening helps identify individuals at risk for cardiovascular diseases, enabling early intervention to prevent heart-related complications.

• Risk Assessment:

  • Cholesterol levels provide insights into an individual’s risk for developing heart disease. Screening classification such as LDL (low-density lipoprotein), HDL (high-density lipoprotein), and triglycerides can shed light on one's comprehensive heart health.

• Personalized Medical Guidance:

  • Results from cholesterol screening can guide personalized lifestyle changes and dietary modifications. Medical professionals can provide tailored advice on exercise, diet, and medication if needed.

• Monitoring and Management:

  • Regular cholesterol screenings allow individuals, especially those with a family history of heart disease, to track changes over time. This ongoing monitoring is essential for managing potential risks through lifestyle or medical interventions.

• Preventive Healthcare:

  • Screening supports a proactive approach to health management, shifting focus from treatment to prevention, thus reducing potential healthcare costs associated with advanced cardiovascular diseases.

• Early Detection:

  • Detecting abnormal cholesterol levels early can significantly improve outcomes by initiating appropriate treatment promptly, thereby reducing the risk of heart attack, stroke, and peripheral artery disease.

Understanding these aspects highlights the significance of cholesterol screening in maintaining heart health and preventing potential complications. For those interested in public health communication or healthcare policy, exploring strategies to increase public awareness and accessibility of cholesterol screening could be a beneficial avenue.

12-hour fasting prior to appointment is recommended.

• Early Detection of Diabetes and Prediabetes:

  • Screening can identify high blood sugar levels before symptoms appear, enabling early intervention strategies to prevent progression to diabetes.
  • Especially important in individuals with risk factors such as obesity, family history of diabetes, or lifestyle risk factors.

• Monitoring Health Status:

  • Regular screenings help manage and monitor existing diabetes, ensuring blood sugar levels remain in the target range to avoid complications.
  • Provides an objective measure to adjust medications, diet, and exercise programs effectively.

• Preventive Health Measure:

  • Even if one is asymptomatic, screening plays a preventive role, helping individuals take timely action to reduce their risk through lifestyle changes.
  • It can help to motivate behavior changes by providing tangible evidence of health improvements or areas needed for concern.

• Access to Targeted Support and Resources:

  • If high levels are detected, healthcare providers can recommend tailored educational resources and support, such as nutritional counseling or diabetes education programs.
  • Allows access to community health initiatives aimed at supporting individuals in managing their health.

• Reducing Complications:

  • Identifying abnormal glucose levels can prevent, or delay complications such as cardiovascular disease, nerve damage, kidney damage, and eye problems associated with prolonged high blood sugar.
  • Early management reduces both immediate and long-term healthcare costs and improves quality of life.

Head Lice | Wisconsin Department of Health Services

• Early Detection:

  • Early identification of lice can prevent severe infestations and make treatment more simple and effective.
  • Catching lice early helps in managing discomfort and symptoms such as itching before they worsen.

• Community Health Protection:

  • Performing lice checks in a community setting helps prevent widespread issues in schools and homes by stopping transmission early.
  • It promotes awareness about lice prevention and treatment, contributing to overall community well-being.

• Cost-Effectiveness:

  • Free checks reduce the financial burden on families who might otherwise find lice treatment expensive.
  • It eliminates the need for purchasing over-the-counter treatments that may not be necessary if no lice are present.

• Professional Assessment:

  • Our Waukesha County Public Health nurses provide accurate diagnosis, which helps avoid misinterpretation of other scalp conditions as lice.
  • They are trained to provide guidance on proper treatment and prevention methods.

• Educational Opportunity:

  • Lice checks include education on how to prevent lice transmission and proper treatment options.
  • Families learn about non-chemical approaches and safe practices for lice management.

• Peace of Mind:

  • Parents and guardians gain peace of mind by confirming if their children have lice or not, allowing informed next steps.
  • Knowing the status reduces anxiety related to the stigma and social concerns of lice infestation.

Utilizing the free head lice check services at Waukesha County Public Health offers preventive benefits, especially in maintaining community health standards. 

Visit our Immunization page by clicking here. 

Our International Travel clinic is open by appointment only.  If you would like to schedule an appointment, please call 262-896-8430. 

Getting vaccinated will help keep you safe and healthy while you're traveling. It will also help to ensure you don't bring home any serious diseases to your family, friends & community.  

  Travel Clinic Services

• Disease risk, prevention & education
• Preventative vaccines & medications
• Education regarding food, water & insect precautions
• Itinerary review with registered nurse

Helpful Resources:

• CDC Travel Information
• U.S. Department of State Travel Information

Immunizations Provided & Fees

• Fees & immunizations may not be waived
• Cash, charge, or check accepted
• You do NOT have to be a Waukesha County resident to receive travel clinic services. 
• Insurance not accepted
• Routinely recommended vaccines also available for children & adults 
• It is best for travelers to schedule an appointment 6-8 weeks in advance to allow for scheduling & adequate immunization protection
• Please arrive 15 minutes before your appointment time for check-in and registration
• Anti-malarial prescriptions provided based on nurse assessment 

Waukesha County reserves the right to change fees without notice.  Call (262) 896-8430 for current pricing and eligibility.

What to bring with you:

• Immunization Record (if available)
• Travel Itinerary (including airport layovers) 

Click here to see a list of vaccines offered. 

• Early Detection:

  • Memory screenings can identify early signs of cognitive impairment, allowing for timely intervention and treatment which can slow progression.

• Baseline Assessment:

  • Establishing a cognitive baseline can help in monitoring changes over time, which is valuable for healthcare planning.

• Peace of Mind:

  • For individuals concerned about their memory, a screening can provide reassurance or highlight areas of concern.

• Awareness and Education:

  • The screening process can increase understanding of memory issues and teach participants about healthy brain practices and risk factors.

• Access to Comprehensive Services:

  • Waukesha County Public Health offers a broad range of family planning and prenatal services beyond just pregnancy tests.

• Affordability:

  • We provide low-cost pregnancy screening, making it accessible for uninsured or under-insured individuals.

• Confidentiality:

  • We ensure confidential services, which can be particularly crucial for young individuals seeking pregnancy screening.

• Community Resources:

  • Referrals to community resources such as parenting classes, nutritional counseling, and prenatal education workshops.

• Qualified Staff:

  • Access to knowledgeable and caring health professionals providing expert guidance.

Testing for Chlamydia, Gonorrhea at Waukesha County Public Health is $25. HIV testing also available for $20. Confidential and by appointment only. 

• Confidential and Professional Environment:

  • Waukesha County Public Health ensures confidentiality and professionalism in providing STI screening, helping reduce the stigma associated with testing.
  • Our dedicated healthcare professionals are trained to provide non-judgmental and respectful care to all individuals.

• Affordable or Free Services:

  • Our testing services are accessible for people who may lack insurance or have financial constraints.
  • We work with each individual to removes the financial barriers that may prevent some individuals from seeking necessary medical attention.

• Expert Counseling and Education:

  • Our staff provides education on prevention, safe practices, and risk reduction strategies to empower individuals in managing their sexual health.
  • Pre- and post-screening counseling ensures individuals understand their potential risks and results accurately, providing clarity on next steps.

• Linkage to Care:

  • Those who test positive can be directly connected with treatment options and additional healthcare services through established public health networks.
  • This integration of testing and treatment helps streamline services for easier access to comprehensive care.

Approaching the Waukesha County Public Health for STI screening not only prioritizes individual health but also contributes to broader public health efforts by reducing transmission rates in the community. 

Helpful links: 

CDC STI Resources
Chlamydia Facts
Gonorrhea Facts
HIV Facts

Understanding TB’s transmission, symptoms, and treatment is crucial to prevent its spread and protect public health, especially since TB can become resistant to treatment if not properly managed. 

Appointments available on Tuesdays at the Waukesha County Public Health Clinic.  Must be able to return in 48 hours to have results read in person.

• Transmission:

  • TB is spread through the air when a person with active TB disease in their lungs coughs, speaks, or sneezes, releasing tiny droplets containing the bacteria.
  • It is not spread by sharing items like clothes or dishes.

• Symptoms:

  • Active TB disease symptoms in the lungs include a persistent cough lasting more than three weeks, chest pain, and coughing up blood or sputum.
  • Systemic symptoms include fatigue, weight loss, fever, and night sweats.

• Latent TB Infection:

  • People with latent TB infection have the TB bacteria in their bodies, but their immune system keeps it inactive. They do not show symptoms and cannot spread TB to others.
  • Without treatment, latent TB can progress to active disease, especially if the individual’s immune system becomes weakened.

• Testing and Diagnosis:

  • The TB skin test (Mantoux tuberculin skin test) is commonly used to screen for latent TB infections.
  • Blood tests, like the interferon-gamma release assays (IGRAs), can also detect TB infection.
  • For active TB, diagnosis is confirmed through a combination of chest X-rays, sputum tests, and clinical symptoms.

• Treatment:

  • Active TB disease usually requires a lengthy course of antibiotics, often over six months, to ensure all the mycobacteria are eliminated.
  • Latent TB infections are treated to prevent progression to active TB, particularly in high-risk individuals.

• Prevention:

  • Preventive measures include wearing masks, improving ventilation, and ensuring anyone with TB follows a full course of antibiotics.

   

Utilizing Waukesha County Public Health for well child strengthens community-wide health monitoring and educational efforts. 

Well Child Screenings meet the physical exam requirements for Head Start. They do NOT meet the requirements for school sports physicals or communicable disease clearance. 

• Comprehensive Health Monitoring:

  • Well screenings provide a thorough assessment of a child’s growth, development, and general health, identifying issues early on for timely intervention.
  • Regularly tracking growth parameters such as height, weight, and head circumference ensures that a child is developing appropriately for their age.

• Vaccinations and Preventive Care:

  • Well screenings are an opportunity to ensure children are up-to-date with their vaccinations, protecting them against various diseases.
  • Address preventive care needs and discuss strategies to avoid common childhood illnesses and risks.

• Early Detection of Health Conditions:

  • Screenings are critical for early detection of potential health conditions such as vision or hearing problems, anemia, or developmental delays.
  • Early intervention can significantly improve prognoses and long-term outcomes for various health conditions.

• Education and Guidance for Parents:

  • Health screenings provide parents an opportunity to discuss their child’s health, nutrition, sleep, behavior, and development with professional healthcare providers.
  • Allows parents to receive guidance tailored specifically to their child's needs, informed by professional insights and experience.

• Establishing Health Baselines:

  • Regular well child visits create a medical history and health baseline that aids in identifying deviations from normal growth patterns or health status.
  • This information is invaluable in making informed decisions about interventions and future healthcare.

• Building Trust with Healthcare Providers:

  • Regular visits foster a continuity of care, establishing trust and communication with healthcare providers, which is beneficial for overall family health.
  • Creates a safe space for discussing any concerns and facilitates a strong healthcare support system.

• Access to Public Health Resources:

  • Waukesha County Public Health may offer additional resources and referrals to specialized services as needed, integrated into the community health framework.
  • Access to educational materials, support groups, or nutrition programs that enhance a child’s health and wellness.

Free STD Testing, Hep C and Rapid test for HIV

Sixteenth Street Clinic

1243 S. Cesar E. Chavez Drive 
Milwaukee, WI 53204

No appointment needed. Prevention services available. 

414-897-5645   |   414-286-3631

HIV testing, Syphilis, Gonorrhea, Chlamydia, Herpes testing.

414-272-2144

BESTD Sexual Health Services | Milwaukee

1240 East Brady Street, 
Milwaukee, WI 53202

All services are free of charge. 

Walk-ins are available, but appointments are encouraged. 

HIV/PrEP testing and counseling available to everyone.

Cisgener Men, Transgender, and non-binary individuals are eligible to test for Syphilis testing (blood draw), Gonorrhea and Chlamydia testing through urine samples, throat swabs and rectal swabs (as appropriate), Herpes virus testing for active lesions (as needed).

Pamela Parker Community Outreach Health Clinic

262-257-3393

W180 N8085, Town Hall Rd, Menomonee Falls, WI 53051 

The Outpatient Care Center is at Froedtert Menomonee Falls Hospital. Park in Lot C and enter through Entrance D.

• Free STD testing offered.
• Extragenital testing available. 
• Non-emergent medical.
• Education and counseling referral. 

To receive care at the Clinic, patients must meet the following criteria:

• Live in Milwaukee, Waukesha, Washington and Ozaukee counties.
• Uninsured or underinsured.
• Adults and emancipated minors whose income from all sources does not exceed 250 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
• Minors under age 18 accompanied by a parent or legal guardian 
  or who provide written consent from a parent or guardian.
• $10 donation requested.
• Available Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5-9pm 
• Free testing services
• Appointments preferred; 
• Walk-ins only available on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5-6pm.

Free services, STI Testing as well as extragenital testing. 

Milwaukee and Non-Milwaukee citizens welcome.

Extragenital testing offered. Walk-Ins welcome.

414-286-3631

STI and HIV Clinic

3200 N. 36th Street 
Milwaukee, WI 53216

Free Chlamydia and Gonorrhea testing.

262-470-3119

Abortion Reversal - Life's Connection

801 N. Rochester St. Mukwonago WI 53149

• Free Gonorrhea and Chlamydia test (Urine test)
• Provides Pregnancy and Abortion Support
• Appointment highly encouraged; can make appointments online
• Medication must be provided elsewhere

Free Chlamydia and Gonorrhea testing.

262-290-5433

Abortion Reversal - Life's Connection

494 W. Main St., Waukesha, WI, 53186

• Free Gonorrhea and Chlamydia test (Urine test)
• Provides pregnancy and abortion support
• Appointment highly encouraged; can make appointments online
• Medication must be obtained elsewhere

HIV Testing

Together TakeMeHome

628-899-4662

support@together.takemehome.org-Free

Free at Home Test kit that tests for HIV. Uses an oral swab. Screening only! If positive, a confirmatory test would have to be done. Client would have to go to a clinic for follow up and care.

Urine testing for Chlamydia and Gonorrhea, Rapid testing for HIV, Hep C, and Syphilis.

414-273-1991  |  800-359-9272

Milwaukee | Vivent Health

1311 N 6th St, Milwaukee, WI 53212