Mary Bouche

The board conducted an election for its officers and held discussions regarding strategic foresight training as a tool for planning the future of long-term care in Wisconsin. Additionally, the board approved the development of a public advocacy framework. Reports were provided on the Medigap Helpline Program, the Long Term Care Ombudsman Program, and various legislative and legal matters, including updates on pending state and federal bills. The Executive Director provided an administrative report covering agency operations, budget, and the current operational roadmap.

The executive committee meeting focused on the selection of the recipient for the 2026 Louise Abrahams Yaffe award, resulting in the selection of volunteer Carrie Russert.

The board meeting agenda includes regulatory administration updates for nursing homes and assisted living facilities, a report on the Medicare annual open enrollment period, and updates on Medigap services. Additional topics cover the National Ombudsman Reporting System data, consideration of the agency's policy platform, program updates for the Long Term Care Ombudsman, and legislative and legal reports. The agenda also includes administrative reports and requests for approval of conference attendance for the Executive Director.

Key discussions during the meeting included an overview of the guardianship process and the duties of a guardian, presented by the Executive Director. Regional Ombudsmen provided updates on complaint management and their role in working with guardians, including trends and resident rights. Counsel to the Board conducted training for board members on public records responsibilities and requests. Updates were also provided on the Medigap Helpline Program, the Volunteer Ombudsman Program, and the Executive Report covered administrative, legislative, long-term care, and budget matters, including updates on state and federal bills and agency staffing. The Board also discussed and approved the meeting dates for 2026.

The board meeting agenda included introductions, the election of board officers (Chairperson, Vice Chairperson, Secretary), and changes to the agenda. Key discussion items involved the 'Four Futures of Aging and Reflections on Envision Strategic Foresight Training.' The board was also scheduled to discuss and potentially take action on the development of an Advocacy Framework. Updates were planned for the Medigap Helpline Program, the Long Term Care Ombudsman Program, and a Legislative & Legal update. The meeting also included an administrative and executive report, and a period for public comments.