LA CROSSE, Wis. (WXOW) – Starting next month, Emplify Health by Gundersen in La Crosse is joining a statewide network designed to improve access to advanced genetic testing for critically ill newborns.
The Badger Baby Network, launched in 2024 by the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health (UWSMPH) and the Medical College of Wisconsin, aims to bring genomic testing to more neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) across the state.
Genomic testing analyzes a patient’s entire DNA to help diagnose rare genetic disorders and tailor treatment plans.
In Wisconsin, about 2,000 babies are born each year with a rare genetic condition. Until now, families often had to travel to Madison or Milwaukee to receive this type of specialized testing.
“Some of these babies were able to receive genetic testing—receive that genetic diagnosis closer to home—and able to stay in those NICU because the providers knew what the diagnosis for the babies were and were better able to manage their cases in the local community hospitals.” UWSMPH Asst. Professor of Pediatrics & Genetic Counselor April Hall said.
The Badger Baby Network began with two pilot sites in Green Bay.
Along with Emplify Health, additional hospitals in Marshfield, West Allis, and the Fox Valley are set to join the network this summer.
Officials say the program not only expands access but also helps train local providers on how to order, interpret and deliver genetic testing results with support from statewide experts.
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