WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Herb Kohl today included $1.55 million in the FY11 Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations Bill for education and health care initiatives in the Milwaukee area.  Kohl is a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee and identified the projects as priorities for funding.  

"Children's hospital in Milwaukee has proven themselves time and again as a leader in diagnostics and treatment. This new program will expand the reach of the hospital through telecommunications, allowing patients throughout the state access to quality doctors," Kohl said. "Additionally, Marquette University has provided quality dental care to low income populations in cities and throughout rural Wisconsin who would otherwise go without proper care. This funding will allow them to continue providing care to underserved populations."  

The funds secured by Kohl include:  

$700,000 for Children's Hospital of Wisconsin and Health System 

Federal funding for the Community Access to Pediatric Specialists via Telemedicine (CAPST) will provide statewide access to diagnostic assistance from pediatric specialists through a broadband-based network set up through the Children's Hospital of Wisconsin.  This technology will allow health care providers throughout the state to consult in real time with pediatric specialists on the most appropriate medical care in emergency situations.  

$850,000 for Marquette University  

Marquette has a well-established program that provides clinical treatment and educational experiences to support oral health care delivery to underserved areas in Wisconsin.  The Comprehensive Dental Outreach Program will provide training in advanced general dentistry, as well as provide dental care to underserved populations throughout the state, including both urban and rural communities.  

The Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations Bill, which includes this project, will next be considered before the full Senate for approval.