Wyoming Department of Health
401 Hathaway Building, Cheyenne WY 82002
Voice: (307) 777-7656
Toll Free: 1-866-571-0944
Fax: (307) 777-7439
General email: wdh@wyo.gov
Important Note About Department Reorganization - Many organizational and staff changes are underway at the Wyoming Department of Health. While we are working toward updating our website to reflect these changes, there may be some inconsistencies in the interim.
Click here for a list of Wyoming Department of Health hotlines
The Aging Division’s mission is to provide a flexible and responsive continuum of services that enable aging-in-place with maximum dignity and independence. The division provides the following services to older and disabled adults, and to the aging network: Funding and technical assistance to senior centers and other service providers; acting as a focal point for the aging network and aging issues; and administering federal and state money that funds the following programs: Older Americans Act programs (supportive services, nutrition, health promotion and disease prevention, caregiver support, elder rights/legal assistance/ombudsman), Community-Based In-Home Services and volunteer programs.
Phone (307) 777-7995 Fax (307) 777-5340, Suite 186A, CenturyLink Bldg., 6101 Yellowstone Rd., Cheyenne WY 82002
Senior Administrator, Heather Babbitt (307) 777-7995
Office Assistant, Shirley Guiberson
Community and Core Program Debbie Walter, (307) 777-5048, State support for National Senior Service Corps programs, which keep seniors active and contributing members of their communities; SAMS database; Aging and Disability Resource Center manager.
Community-Based In-Home Services Rebecca McDaniel, (307) 777-8735, Assistance with personal care, household tasks and other services that help older and physically disabled adults to remain living at home.
National Family Caregiver Support Program Jeanne Scheneman, (307) 777-8566, Provides a wide array of services to help family caregivers take care of ill and/or disabled family members at home.
Nutrition Programs Benjamin Rex, (307) 777-7988, Programs to help maintain the nutritional status of older citizens, both in congregate and home settings.
Quality Assurance Pamela Farster, (307) 777-6103, Monitors provider compliance with federal and state regulations, completing required federal, state and agency reporting requirements.
Community Living Tim Ernst, Aging Division deputy administrator, (307) 777-6102, A variety of services that help seniors live independently in their communities as well as funding and technical assistance to senior centers and other service providers, acting as a focal point for the aging network and aging issues; and administering federal and state money.
Supportive Services Betty Sones, (307) 777-6321, A variety of services that help seniors remain living independently in their communities. Services include transportation, senior center operations, outreach, education and socialization activities.
Responsible for regulatory oversight related to state licensing and federal certification of Wyoming healthcare facilities. In addition, the office has jurisdiction over construction/remodeling of all new and existing healthcare facilities subject to state licensure.
Phone (307) 777-7123 Fax (307) 777-7127 Suite 400, CenturyLink Building, 6101 Yellowstone Rd. Cheyenne WY 82002.
Administrator, Ron Pearson, (307) 777-7123
Healthcare Surveillance Branch, Laura Hudspeth, (307) 777-6882
Business Office Branch, Tammy Schmitt (307) 777-7124
Life Safety and Construction Branch, Todd Wyatt (307) 777-8696
The Veterans' Home is a licensed assisted-living facility founded to a secure, dignified, and high quality of life for honorably discharged veterans and their dependents.
Phone (307) 684-5511, Fax (307) 684-7636, 700 Veterans’ Lane, Buffalo WY 82834
Superintendent, Richard Dunkley
Facility Operations Manager, Thomas McClain
Office Assistant, Laure Walter
The Wyoming Pioneer Home is a licensed, 64-bed assisted-living facility. It provides a home for Wyoming retired citizens regardless of their financial assets, who no longer wish to maintain a residence, or are unable to do so.
Phone (307) 864-3151, Fax (307) 864-2934, 141 Pioneer Home Drive, Thermopolis WY 82443
Facility Operations Manager, Sharon Skiver
Office Assistant, Dara Johnson
The Wyoming Retirement Center is a licensed, 90-bed skilled nursing care facility. It provides 24-hour multi disciplinary healthcare services, including care for Alzheimer victims and clients with aggressive behaviors.
Phone (307) 568-2431, Fax (307) 568-3887, 890 Highway 20, Basin WY 82410
Interim Facility Operations Manager, Richard Dunkley
Office Assistant, Serena Lipp
Behavioral Health Division
Senior Administrator, Chris Newman (307) 777-6494
Executive Assistant, Elisha Sprong, (307) 777-7940
Suite 220, CenturyLink Bldg., 6101 Yellowstone Road, Cheyenne, WY 82002 Fax (307) 777-5849
Contracts, Management and Support Unit Provides administrative support for all programs within the Behavioral Health Division with the primary purpose of helping execute any number of day-to-day operations. Support duties include participation in assigned administrative processes and programs, and to provide information and assistance to the public regarding the assigned programs and services. Additionally, this unit is tasked with the systematic and efficient management of the division’s contract creation, execution and analysis. Contracts, Management and Support Unit Manager, Nicole Gilbert, (307) 777-3364
Office Assistant and HR Liaison, Linda Briley, (307) 777-7116
Division Assistant and Receptionist, Vacant, (307) 777-5817
Fiscal Administrative Support, Anissa Michaud, (307) 777-7292
Contract Specialist, Heath Frost, (307) 777-6197
Communications, Policy, Training and Research Unit Functions as the gatekeeper for communication plans, public policy development and reporting, policy research, rule development, program research, data analysis, and training development and coordination for the Behavioral Health Division. This unit coordinates and monitors communication, research and training for quality and consistency. This unit develops publications, reports, and sends out communication.
Unit Manager, Jamie Staunton, (307) 777-5660
Policy, Data and Research Specialist, Patrick Harris, (307) 742-2037
Training Coordinator, Sharla Beeken, (307) 777-6775
Knowledge Management, Analysis and Technology (K-MAT) Unit The Knowledge Management, Analysis and Technology (K-MAT) Unit functions as the “Gatekeeper” for all data requests, ensuring prioritizations and data validation. Maintains knowledge and supports all report needs and all database systems within the Division. This unit watches technology changes and adopts as necessary.
K-MAT Unit Manager, Lisa Petersen, (307) 777-5850
Epidemiologist II (Data Analyst), Vacant, (307) 777-6494
WCIS Program Manager, Polly Tani, (307) 777-5695
WCIS Technical Assistant, Vacant, (307) 777-6494
The Developmental Disabilities Section’s mission is to provide funding and guidance responsive to the needs of at least 3,700 people with developmental disabilities or acquired brain injuries, to live, work, and learn in Wyoming communities. The section is headquartered in Cheyenne, with additional personnel located in Buffalo, Casper, Cody, Evanston, Laramie, Riverton and Torrington. The section has overall supervision of developmental disability community programs and the Wyoming Life Resource Center in Lander. Fax (307) 777-6047
Administrator, Joe Simpson, (307) 777-7460
Executive Assistant, Jan Altum, (307) 777-7359
Participant Support Services Unit The Participant Support Services Unit processes applications and oversees home and community-based waiver services for the Adult Acquired Brain Injury Waiver, the Adult Developmental Disabilities (DD) Waiver, the Child Developmental Disabilities Waiver, the Children’s Mental Health Waiver and the Child State Respite Program.
Participant Support Unit Manager, Beverly Swistowicz, (307) 777-3321
Participant Support Supervisor, Rory Schiffbauer, (307) 777-8760
(Plans: Campbell, Park and Sheridan)
Participant Support Specialist, Dennis Yost, (307) 534-4658
(Eligibility: Albany, Carbon, Goshen, Niobrara, Platte and Weston counties)
Participant Support Specialist, Linda Hallock, (307) 527-4181
(Eligibility: Big Horn, Hot Springs, Park and Washakie counties)
Participant Support Specialist, Dalreen Kessler, (307) 684-7632
(Eligibility: Campbell, Crook, Johnson and Sheridan counties)
Participant Support Specialist, Lorrie Hayes, (307) 234-6439
(Eligibility: Converse and Natrona counties)
Participant Support Specialist, Pam Snyder, (307) 856-4648
(Eligibility: Fremont, Sublette and Teton counties)
Participant Support Specialist, Bonnie Laird, (307) 789-0618
(Eligibility: Lincoln, Sweetwater and Uinta counties)
Participant Support Specialist, Donna Pepper, (307) 777-7684
(Eligibility: Laramie County for participants with last names beginning with A – L)
(Plans: Washakie County and Laramie County, except Magic City, MRSI, CRMC, LA Services)
Participant Support Specialist, Ragen Latham, (307) 777-6490
(Eligibility: Laramie County for participants with last names beginning with M – Z)
(Plans: Big Horn and Laramie County for Magic City, MRSI, CRMC and LA Services)
Participant Support Specialist, Brett Wilson, (307) 777-5241
(Plans: Albany, Converse, Crook, Goshen, Johnson, Platte and Weston counties)
Participant Support Specialist, Tammy Edlefsen, (307) 777-3443
(Plans: Carbon, Fremont, Niobrara and Sweetwater counties)
Participant Support Specialist, Rita Munoz, (307) 777-3694
(Plans: Hot Springs and Natrona counties)
Participant Support Specialist, Kathy Sierocki, (307) 777-3322
(Plans: Lincoln, Sublette, Teton and Uinta counties)
Children’s Mental Health Waiver,The Children’s Mental Health Home and Community Based Services Waiver is a program that, by using high fidelity wraparound, aims to help children of Wyoming (ages 4 - 20) reduce their level of service needs and increase their natural supports.
Sarah Compton, (307) 777-3352
State Respite Care Provides a rest for parents apart from their children who have developmental disabilities birth through 20 years of age.
Tammy Edlefsen, (307) 777-3443
Provider Support Unit Certifies and approves waiver providers; visits providers and deals with all complaints against waiver providers.
Provider Support Unit Manager, Kathy Escobedo, (307) 777-8761
Provider Support Specialist, Glen Barrows, (307) 587-5316
(Big Horn, Hot Spring, Johnson, Park, Sheridan and Washakie counties)
Provider Support Specialist, Jennifer Spain, (307) 856-9083
(Carbon, Fremont, Sublette and Teton counties)
Provider Support Specialist, Paul DeLap, (307) 235-1182
(Natrona County)
Provider Support Specialist, Phillip Browning, (307) 789-0615
(Lincoln, Sweetwater and Uinta counties)
Provider Support Specialist, Shannon Moskovita, (307) 777-3407
(Laramie County)
Provider Support Specialist, Shelley Harper, (307) 532-3589
(Albany, Campbell, Converse, Crook, Goshen, Niobrara, Platte, Weston counties and out of state)
Wyoming Life Resource Center
The Wyoming Life Resource Center is a state-supported facility, providing care and learning opportunities to individuals with developmental, cognitive and/or physical disabilities. The program for persons with developmental disabilities is a certified Intermediate Care Facility/MR facility. The WLRC mission is to support each person served to lead a fulfilling life that is founded on practical skills, inclusion, new experiences, and choices based on interests and abilities. The Acquired Brain Injury Unit, The Visions Program, provides residential and therapeutic services to people with challenging medical, physical or behavioral problems resulting from their brain injury.
Toll free phone (800) 294-1888, Fax (307) 335-6990, 8204 Wyoming Highway 789, Lander, WY 82520-2941
Superintendent, Virginia Wright, (307) 335-6891
Business Office Coordinator, Stephanie Wright, (307) 335-6891
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services
Fax (307) 777-5849
Administrator, Alice Russler, (307) 777-3365
Executive Assistant, Dani Sullivan, (307) 777-7359
K-MAT (Knowledge Management, Analysis and Technology), Lisa Peterson, (307) 777-5850
Quality Management and Outcomes Unit Manager, Marla Smith, (307) 777-7903
Community Systems Unit Manager, Carol Day, (307) 777-7110
Office Assistant, Linda Briley, (307) 777-7116
Community Systems Unit Responsible for mental health and substance abuse treatment contract development, fiscal monitoring of contract expenditures, recovery supports, outreach and advocacy services to veterans, and leading treatment system planning.
Children and Women’s Services Coordinator, Shawna Pena, (307) 777-5828
Community Systems Unit Manager, Carol Day, (307) 777-7110
Recovery Support Services, Janet Jares, (307) 777-8515
Veterans Advocacy and Outreach, Regina Dodson, (307) 777-8627
Quality Management and Outcomes Unit Responsible for managing the court supervised treatment program, federal block grant program, accreditation, certification and the behavioral health outcomes system, which assists in planning and accountability for publically funded community based services.
Quality Management and Outcomes Unit Manager, Marla Smith, (307) 777-7903
Community Services Coordinator, Sylvia Bagdonas, (307) 777-3390
Court Supervised Treatment Programs, Enid White, (307) 777-6885
State Mental Health and Substance Abuse Planner, Portia Peterson, (307) 777-6693
Substance Abuse Program Certification and Training Specialist, Mary Jane Schultz, (307) 777-5253
QMP Program Manager, Margarete Loghry, (307) 777-7936
QMP Specialist, Nicole Gilbert, (307) 777-3364
Wyoming State Hospital
Our mission is to improve the lives of people in Wyoming affected by mental illness. The Wyoming State Hospital is located in Evanston and is the only state-operated psychiatric hospital. In meeting our mission statement we provide a myriad of service interventions that include inpatient alternatives to hospitalization and triage evaluation and recommendations. Within the inpatient we provide a continuum process of acute, intermediate and rehabilitation services based upon the specific needs of the individual person. Another specialty is that of forensic services. This is also made available through inpatient and outpatient evaluations, meeting the specific court order requests such as determination of competency, insanity or treat to competency.
Fax (307) 789-5277, PO Box 177; Physical Address: 831 Hwy 150 S, Evanston, WY 82931-0177
Superintendent, Bill Sexton, (307) 789-3464 X355
Office Assistant, Karen Donovan, (307) 789-3464 X354
Meredith Asay, Administrator, (307) 777-8965
Bob Crowther, Policy Advisor (Rules Promulgation), (307) 777-3408
Mindy Dahl Chai, Senior Research Scientist, (307) 777-5480
Senior Administrator and State Medicaid Agent, Teri Green (307) 777-7531
Management Assistant, Chris Bass, (307) 777-6029
Suite 210, Qwest Bldg., 6101 N. Yellowstone Rd. Fax (307) 777-6964
Children’s Health Insurance Program (Kid Care CHIP) Provides healthcare benefits for income-qualified uninsured children up to 200 percent of the federal poverty level.
Applications (307) 777-8923 or toll-free at (877) 543-7660
Manager, Susie Scott (307) 777-6228
Outreach Specialist, Janae Lopez (307) 777-7574
Fiscal Specialist, Aaron Wales (307) 777-8698
Medicaid Fax (307) 777-6964.This office administers Wyoming Medicaid.
State Medicaid Agent, Teri Green (307) 777-7531
Eligibility and Operations Manager, Jan Stall (307) 777-5472
Provider Operations Administrator, Lindsey Schilling, (307) 777-6032
Provider Services, Sheree Nall (307) 777-5756
Provider Services, Sara Walk (307) 777-7257
Fraud and Abuse-Program Integrity, Christine Bates (307) 777-3594
TPL/Recovery Coordinator, Sheila McInerney (307) 777-5389
Facilities Manager, Renee Propps (307) 777-5081
Pharmacy Services Manager, Cori Cooper, (307) 777-6016
Pharmacist Consultant, Donna Artery, (307) 777-8699
Health Management, Heather Theis (307) 777-5854
Waiver Program Manager, Kim Latta (307) 777-2485
HIT Coordinator, Linda Cramer (307) 777-5324
Medicaid Behavioral Health, Lisa Brockman, (307) 777-7326
CHIPRA Grant Manager, Stephanie Fisher, (307) 777-8396
Dental Provider Services Manager, April Burton, (307) 777-8088
Assisted Living Facility Waiver Linda Flynn, (307) 777-7366 Medicaid long-term care assistance for eligible individuals residing in assisted living facilities.
Home and Community-Based Long-Term Care Waiver Services Linda Flynn, (307) 777-7366 Medicaid in-home services for elderly and physically disabled persons meeting nursing-facility level of care eligibility and who would otherwise have to enter a nursing home.
Home Health Services Linda Flynn, (307) 777-7366 Program oversight of Medicaid-reimbursed home health services to patients in their homes under a physician's plan of care.
Hospice Services Linda Flynn, (307) 777-7366 Program oversight for services and care related to terminal illness delivered in a patient's home under a physician's orders.
Long-Term Care Renee Propps, (307) 777-5081 Nursing facility and swing bed services for patients with medical needs who are unable to continue to live in the community. Also includes program oversight for board and care homes.
Medicaid Eligibility Dana Pepmeier (307) 777-6074
Medicaid Facilities Reimbursement Renee Propps, (307) 777-2485
Medicaid Medical Officer/WDH Physician Jim Bush, M.D., F.A.C.P. (307) 777-7245 Provides clinical determinations and consultation to department programs.
PACE (Program for All Inclusive Care for the Elderly) Anita Fox (307) 777-8230
Project Out (307) 777-8230 Transition and diversion services to help Medicaid eligible people transition from nursing homes to home and community-based settings.
Prescription Drug Assistance Donna Artery, PharmD., (307) 777-8699 State-funded prescription program for low-income clients.
Telemedicine and Telehealth James Bush, MD (307) 777-7245, Coordinates and plans the development of a statewide telemedicine capability.
Fiscal Services
Chief Financial Officer: Bob Peck (307) 777-3670
Deputy Chief Financial Officer: Eric McVicker (307) 777-8205
Office Supervisor / Senior Executive Assistant to the Chief Financial Officer: Jo Grady, (307) 777-6778
Fax (307) 777-7439, 401 Hathaway Bldg., 2300 Capitol Avenue, Cheyenne WY 82002
Budget Officer Eric McVicker, Interim, (307) 777-8205
General Accounting Manager Rusty Williams
Contract and Reporting Analyst Deanna Larson, (307) 777-7041
Elderly/Disabled Tax Refund Bonnie Runnels, (307) 777-6794
Hathaway Bldg., 4th Flr.
De Anna Greene, (307) 777-8664
Tate Nuckols, (307) 777-2438
Hathaway Bldg, 4th Flr., Cheyenne WY 82002 Fax (307) 777-1902
Human Resources Administrator, Pat Green (307) 777-6057
Human Resources Officer, Chris Bosselman (307) 777-7695
Human Resources Manager, Melanie Doolin (307) 777-6787
Recruitment and Payroll, Kim Calderon (307) 777-6919
Payroll and HR Services, Christina Newman (307) 777-1914
Personnel Specialist, Ramona Nelson (307) 777-7276
Institutional Review Board (IRB)
The Wyoming Department of Health Institutional Review Board is charged to protect the rights and welfare of human research subjects recruited to participate in research activities. Research that involves the participation of human subjects requires approval or exemption from the Institutional Review Board.
Contact: Karl Musgrave, DVM, MPH, (307) 777-5825
Media Relations - See “Public Information Officer”
State Health Officer and Senior Administrator, Wendy Braund, MD, MPH, MSEd, (307) 777-6340
Executive Assistant to the Senior Administrator, Mirandie Peterson, (307) 777-8603
Suite 420, CenturyLink Bldg, 6101 Yellowstone Road, Cheyenne, WY 82002
The roles of public health agencies are assessment, assurance and policy development. With these roles in mind, the mission of Community and Public Health is to optimize quality of life through promotion of health, prevention of disease and protection of communities. Community and Public Health will provide for improved outcomes and be accountable to the health of the community.
Interim Administrator, Korin Schmidt (307) 777-6004
Executive Assistant, Deb Armstrong (307) 777-8238
Suite 420, CenturyLink Bldg., 6101 Yellowstone Road, Cheyenne WY 82002 Fax (307) 777-3617
Adolescent Health Charla Ricciardi, B. Ed., (307) 777-3733, Suite 420, CenturyLink Bldg., 6101 Yellowstone Road. Supports the improvement of youth development outcomes by facilitating and partnering with youth issue task forces.
Best Beginnings Karen Meyer, R.N., B.S., (307) 332-3954, 8204 WY Hwy 789, Lander, WY 82520. Coordinates the provision of family visiting services to at-risk families. Supports and provides technical assistance to public and private sector efforts to enhance child development pre-birth through eight years old.
Breastfeeding Support in the Workplace Barbara Buyske, M.S., R.D., (307) 777-3459, Suite 510, CenturyLink Bldg., 6101 Yellowstone Road. Promotes breastfeeding among employees of the Community and Public Health Division to bring infants to the workplace for first six months.
Children’s Special Healthcare (CSH) Jody Yelton, M.S., (307) 777-8225, Suite 420, CenturyLink Bldg., 6101 Yellowstone Road. Provides care coordination, limited financial assistance for selected diagnoses, and access to specialty services for children and adolescents with special healthcare needs within their communities.
CRHD Epidemiology. Angela Crotsenberg, M.S., (307) 777-8787, Suite 420, CenturyLink Bldg., 6101 Yellowstone Road. Conducts public health surveillance by collecting, collating, and analyzing epidemiological health indicator data to monitor and assess health status. Provides support to local health departments and other community organizations as they conduct healthcare planning to pinpoint and address local maternal and family health needs.
Family Planning Debra Hamilton, R.N., M.S.N., C.C.M., C.L.C., (307) 777-7944, Suite 420, CenturyLink Bldg., 6101 Yellowstone Road. Contracts with private and public providers to ensure access to family planning services.
Genetic Screening Jody Yelton, M.S., (307) 777-8225, Suite 420, CenturyLink Bldg., 6101 Yellowstone Road. Contracts with a public health lab to ensure access to newborn genetic screening. The program also provides educational materials on genetic screening and disorders and provides support to parents, public and private healthcare providers.
Immunization Vacant, (307) 777-6001, Suite 420, CenturyLink Bldg., 6101 Yellowstone Road. Provides vaccine to public and private medical providers to immunize children, birth to 18 years of age. The program also provides educational materials on vaccines and immunizations; education, and educational materials; and technical support on vaccines/immunizations and immunization computer programs to public and private healthcare providers.
Maternal and Family Health (MFH) Linda McElwain, R.N., (307) 777-6326, Suite 420, CenturyLink Bldg., 6101 Yellowstone Road. As part of a broad network of partners, assesses, monitors, and improves the health and well-being of mothers, infants, children, and adolescents by strengthening the personal care and public health systems to assure access to quality comprehensive care. Maternal and Family Health includes these programs: Children’s Special Healthcare, Data Services, Early Childhood Development/Home Visiting for Pregnant/Parenting Families, Family Planning, Safe Kids of Wyoming, Maternal High Risk and High-Risk Newborn, and Perinatal Services.
Maternal High Risk and Newborn Intensive Care Debra Hamilton, R.N., M.S.N., C.C.M., C.L.C., (307) 777-7944, Suite 420, CenturyLink Bldg., 6101 Yellowstone Road. Provides limited financial assistance for pregnant women and infants who need to access high-risk specialty care outside the state.
Newborn Metabolic Jody Yelton, M.S., (307) 777-8225, Suite 420, CenturyLink Bldg., 6101 Yellowstone Road. Contracts with a public health lab to ensure access to newborn metabolic screening. The program also provides educational materials on metabolic screening and provides support to parents, public and private healthcare providers.
Nurse Family Partnership (NFP) Karen Meyer, R.N., B.S., (307) 332-3954, 8204 WY Hwy 789, Lander 82520. Provides free nurse home visitation services for first-time pregnant women with continuation through the child’s second birthday.
Oral Health Trish O’Grady, R.D.H., (307) 777-7947, or Bruce Whiting, Interim Staff Dentist (307) 777-2976 Suite 420, CenturyLink Bldg., 6101 Yellowstone Road. Administration of the semi-annual Cleft Palate Clinic, payment for dental services to the elderly, and management of children’s dental programs.
Perinatal Services Debra Hamilton, R.N., M.S.N., C.C.M., C.L.C., (307) 777-7944, Suite 420, CenturyLink Bldg., 6101 Yellowstone Road. Develops local community healthcare systems to increase access to services during the critical perinatal period.
Public Health Nursing Karen Mahan, R.N., M.P.H., (307) 777-6360, Suite 420, CenturyLink Bldg., 6101 Yellowstone Road. PHN offices are located throughout the counties in Wyoming, and provide direct services in the areas of communicable disease, disease and injury prevention, emergency preparedness, health promotion, maternal and child health, and pre-admission screening for nursing home placement. PHN serves as the local service provider for many departmental programs including immunizations, Maternal and Family Health, and Nurse Family Partnerships.
Safe Kids of Wyoming Charla Ricciardi, B. Ed. (307) 777-3733, Suite 420, CenturyLink Bldg., 6101 Yellowstone Road. Coordinates with a private-sector partner, Cheyenne Regional Medical Center Foundation, to raise awareness about the preventable nature of infant, child, and adolescent disease and injury.
Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Janet Moran, M.S., R.D., (307) 777-7494, Suite 510, CenturyLink Bldg., 6101 Yellowstone Road. A federally funded program that provides a nutritious supplemental food package, nutrition, education, and health referral to pregnant, postpartum, and breast-feeding women; infants; and children up to age five whose incomes fall at or below 185 percent of poverty and who exhibit a nutrition-related health risk. Services to an average 11,700 participants per month are provided through 19 local WIC offices serving 37 Wyoming communities.
Emergency Medical Services
Administrator, Andy Gienapp, (307) 777-6020. Toll-free, in-state only: (888) 228-8996, Qwest Bldg., Suite 400 Provides community-based emergency medical training at four different certification levels. Ensures quality pre-hospital emergency care to the general public by certifying personnel, licensing ambulance services, inspecting vehicles, providing technical assistance and administrative support and taking legal action. Assures that a regionally accredited poison information and treatment center is available to citizens and health professionals 24-7.
EMS - Comfort One Beth Hollingsworth, (307) 777-6019, Qwest Bldg., Suite 400 Cardiopulmonary Resuscitative Directives.
Emergency Medical Services for Children Carol Jansen, (307) 777-3622, Qwest Bldg., Suite 400.
EMS Poison Control (307) 777-7955, Hathaway Bldg., 4th Flr.
EMS Trauma System (307) 777-3470, Hathaway Bldg., 4th Flr. Continues the development of an integrated statewide trauma system that reduces the epidemic of injury, disability, and death.
Public Health Emergency Predaredness Program
Health Alert Network Paul Card, (307) 777-7189, Hathaway Bldg., 4th Flr. Coordinates the receipt-passing of 24/7 public health alert information to responders for natural and man-caused disasters and emergencies.
Public Health Emergency Preparedness Program Angela Van Houten, M.S., (307) 777-5778, Hathaway Bldg., 4th Flr. Develops and coordinates plans of action for Wyoming Department of Health response to natural and other disasters and emergencies.
Public Health Emergency Preparedness Training Jim Smith, (307) 777-6777, Hathaway Bldg., 4th Flr, Training/ Educational Program Facilitator, (307) 777-8747, Hathaway Bldg., 4th Flr. Conducts training and needs assessments; develops, designs, and facilitates the conduct of training needs for those responsible for directing, conducting, and facilitation public health and other responders to natural and man-caused disasters. Preventive Health and Safety
The Preventive Health and Safety mission is to promote, protect and enhance the health of all Wyoming residents.
Administrator, Linda Chasson (307) 777-7958
Senior Office Assistant, Deborah Driscoll (307) 777-7172
Suite 510, Qwest Bldg., 6101 Yellowstone Rd., Cheyenne WY 82002 Fax (307) 777-5402
Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) Menlo Futa, MA, (307) 777-6012, Suite 510, Qwest Bldg., 6101 Yellowstone Rd. Coordinates ongoing telephone surveys of health-related behaviors, health conditions and preventive health practices of Wyoming adults, analyzes data and disseminates results.
Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program Carol Peterson, (307) 777-6006, Suite 259B, Qwest Bldg., 6101 Yellowstone Rd. Comprehensive federally funded program that provides early detection (screening and diagnostic) services to women most at risk for breast or cervical cancer. Women must meet certain age, income and insurance guidelines. Other mandated program components include: public education and outreach, professional education, quality assurance and improvement, tracking and follow-up, case management, coalitions and partnerships, surveillance and evaluation.
Cancer Surveillance/Cancer Registry Julia Espinoza, (307) 777-3477, Suite 259A, Qwest Bldg., 6101 Yellowstone Rd. Collects detailed information on all cancer cases diagnosed in Wyoming. Information is used to evaluate the effectiveness of cancer prevention programs and helps hospital administrators and physicians plan cancer treatment programs. The program routinely responds to public requests for data on cancer in Wyoming, and publishes several cancer reports each year.
Chronic Disease Epidemiology Joe Grandpre (307) 777-8654, Suite 259A, Qwest Bldg., 6101 Yellowstone Rd.
Communicable Disease Section Bronwen Anderson (307) 777-7529, Suite 510, Qwest Bldg., 6101 Yellowstone Rd. Receives federal and state funding for prevention and education of the following communicable diseases: tuberculosis, HIV, AIDS, hepatitis and sexually transmitted infections. Provides funding for health education and risk reduction interventions for HIV and AIDS. Funds HIV and hepatitis counseling and testing services through community agencies, serves as payor of last resort for client medical and supportive services, and coordinates HIV community planning. Provides resource information, public and professional education.
Comprehensive Cancer Control Liz Mikesell (307) 777-8609, Suite 259A, Qwest Bldg., 6101 Yellowstone Rd. Facilitates the collaborative process through which Wyoming communities and its partners pool resources to promote cancer prevention, improve cancer detection, increase access to health and social services, and reduce the burden of cancer.
Colorectal Cancer Early Detection Program Liz Mikesell (307) 777-8609, Suite 259A, Qwest Building, 6101 Yellowstone Rd. The purpose of this program is to increase screening in colon cancer about eligible Wyoming residents.
Diabetes Prevention and Control Star Morrison (307) 777-3579, Suite 259A, Qwest Bldg., 6101 Yellowstone Rd. Focus is on defining the burden of diabetes by assessing prevalence and incidence, and on moving forward with coordination and implementation of programs and projects that tackle access to care issues, providing professional and public education, promoting health communication messages, and creating synergistic partnerships among provider systems
Disease Intervention Specialists (DIS) (307) 777-5518, Suite 510, Qwest Bldg., 6101 Yellowstone Rd. Canyon Hardesty STD Program Manager (Southeast Region) (307) 777-8939; Field staff: Tai Wright (Northeast Region) (307) 777-3562; Sheriedan Grannan (Southwest Region) (307) 777-2434. Field epidemiologists provide follow up services to individuals who have been identified with a positive finding for STI, HIV, TB and/or Hepatitis B or C. Follow up investigations are encouraged with partners of identified patients to assess further risk and provide additional counseling and/or testing. These services are confidential. Out-of-state contacts are also initiated and followed up by the staff.
Environmental Public Health Vacant, (307) 777-2931, Suite 510, Qwest Bldg., 6101 Yellowstone Rd. Provides environmental public health epidemiology services including investigation and correction of environmental, chemical and radiological hazards.
Food and Waterborne Disease Surveillance Kelly Weidenbach, Surveillance Epidemiologist, (307) 266-0052. Monitors and tracks the epidemiology of food and waterborne diseases in the state and investigates clusters and outbreaks of disease. Provides analytic and technical consultations for healthcare providers statewide on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of food and waterborne diseases.
Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention Dave Ivester, (307) 777-3732, Suite 259A, Qwest Bldg., 6101 Yellowstone Rd. Facilitates collaboration among public and private sector partners and defines the burden of heart disase and stroke in Wyoming. Develops and updates a comprehensive state plan for heart disease and stroke prevention.
Hepatitis Program Canyon Hardesty, (307) 777-8939, Suite 510, Qwest Bldg., 6101 Yellowstone Rd. This program is minimally funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for the purpose of providing information and technical assistance to the community and healthcare providers on hepatitis C. The program specifically tracks surveillance information on hepatitis B and C cases and provides investigative follow-up for cases that indicate potential clusters. The program works closely with the department’s Immunization Program and oversees an immunization initiative for vaccination of high risk adults for hepatitis A and B. The HIV Program, in collaboration with the STD, TB, and Hepatitis programs also supports DIS activities. This program is 100 percent funded through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and receives state general funds for the adult vaccine program.
HIV/AIDS Surveillance Cheryl Corbin, (307) 777-7719, Suite 510, Qwest Bldg., 6101 Yellowstone Rd. Monitors and tracks HIV infection and AIDS through the collection of case and laboratory reports. Publishes semi-annual surveillance report for general use. Detailed data drive HIV/AIDS prevention efforts. Processes HIV counseling and testing data submitted to the program including submission of reports to CDC as required. This program is 100 percent federally funded through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
HIV Prevention Program Robert Johnston, M.Ed., Program Manager, (307) 237-2044. The HIV Prevention program is funded to provide HIV counseling and testing, laboratory support, health education and risk reduction information, and programming as well as health communication and public information. HIV activities and interventions are primarily targeted to most at-risk individuals as defined by a statewide community advisory body. The program provides technical assistance and capacity building to other health care professionals and community based organizations that work with persons at risk for, living with or impacted by HIV/AIDS disease. The HIV Program, in collaboration with the STD, TB, and Hepatitis programs also supports DIS activities. This program is 100 percent funded through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
HIV Treatment Program Debi Nelson-Anderson, (307) 777-5856, Suite 510, Qwest Bldg., 6101 Yellowstone Rd. The HIV Treatment Program is comprised of four federal funding streams; Ryan White Part B, AIDS Drug Assistance Programs (ADAP), Ryan White Part C and the Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA). All of which support core medical services (physician visits, laboratory and diagnostic testing), supportive services (dental, mental health and substance abuse treatment, respite services, etc), ADAP medications, tenant-based housing assistance, short term rental and utilities assistance. The HIV Treatment Program also receives limited state dollars to support medical services and ADAP medicaitons to supplement federal dollars. The Ryan White Part B/ADAP and HOPWA services are only available when no other resources are available to the clients who meet stringent financial eligibilty guidelines. Ryan White Part C services are available to all HIV positive clients regardless of financial status but are limited to physician visits, laboratory and diagnostic testing and are provided on a sliding fee scale for all HIV positive clients. Ryan White Part B, ADAP and Ryan White Part C are federal funds provided by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). HOPWA is funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
Infectious Disease Epidemiology Program Clayton Van Houten, Program Manager (307) 777-5596, Suite 510, Qwest Bldg., 6101 Yellowstone Rd. The Infectious Disease Epidemiology Program oversees the surveillance and control of infectious diseases throughout the state including: food and waterborne disease (E. coli, giardia, etc.), vaccine-preventable diseases (pertussis, bacterial meningitis, etc.), zoonotic diseases (plague, Q-fever, etc.) and vectorborne diseases (West Nile virus, Colorado tick fever, etc.). The program responds to and investigates clusters and outbreaks of illnesses. It also provides analytic and medical consultations for healthcare providers statewide.
Influenza Surveillance Reginald McClinton, Surveillance Epidemiologist, (307) 777-8640, Suite 510, Qwest Bldg., 6101 Yellowstone Rd. Monitors and tracks the epidemiology of influenza in the state and investigates influenza and other infectious disease clusters and outbreaks. Provides analytic and technical consultations for healthcare providers statewide on prevent, diagnosis, and treatment of influenza.
Lead Poisoning Prevention Steve Melia, Program Manager, (307) 777-6015, Suite 510, Qwest Bldg., 6101 Yellowstone Rd. Provides surveillance of adult and pediatric blood lead screening by physicians and medical clinics, and coordinates environmental follow-up to ensure cases of lead poisoning are identified, investigated, and eliminated. Provides professional and public health educational materials on adult and childhood lead poisoning prevention.
Public Health Laboratory Richard Harris (307) 777-7431, 208 S College Drive. Performs analytical procedures for both Preventive Health and Safety Division, and for state and community health, law enforcement and substance abuse agencies. Bioterrorism lab BSL-3 capability for detection of biohazardous/bioterrorism agents, development of testing procedures for emerging pathogens, clinical lab training, outbreak preparedness for biohazardous agents and chemical terrorism preparedness. Chemical testing program performs DUI alcohol analysis, substance abuse toxicology, drug analysis collection training, intoximeter training/quality control and expert witness services. Microbiology service provides testing for communicable and infectious diseases and outbreaks, bacterial/parasite identification, strep testing, rival vaccine serology, mycobacteriology, molecular typing, STD and blood-born virus detection, EPA drinking water analysis, West Nile Virus testing and influenza surveillance.
Bioterrorism Lab. Shawna Dereemer (307) 777-3735.
Chemical Testing Program (Drug and Alcohol Toxicology). Tom Johnson (307) 777-7868.
Microbiology Service. Jim Walford, Lab Manager (307) 777-6053.
Radon Project Steve Melia, Program Manager, (307) 777-6015, Suite 510, Qwest Bldg., 6101 Yellowstone Rd. Provides educational and awareness programs for professionals and citizens of Wyoming. Many communities throughout Wyoming have local programs that provide information and test kit access, and have personnel available for presentations.
Sexually-Transmitted Diseases Canyon Hardesty, Program Manager (307) 777-8939, Suite 510, Qwest Bldg., 6101 Yellowstone Rd. The STD Program is comprised and funded for two prevention parts: 1) the Comprehensive STD Prevention Services (CSPS), and 2) the Infertility Prevention Program (IPP). The CSPS program provides laboratory support for testing of chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis cases, as well as provides education and information on sexually transmitted diseases. The program provides technical assistance to healthcare professionals on the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of sexually transmitted diseases. The IPP program provides financial support for the testing of chlamydia in family planning clinics as well as other community locations serving women ages 15 to 24 who are at the highest risk for contracting chlamydia. The HIV Program, in collaboration with the STD, TB, and Hepatitis programs also supports DIS ** activities (see description of DIS Program). This program is 100 percent funded through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Tuberculosis (TB) Control Canyon Hardesty, (307) 777-8939, Suite 510, Qwest Bldg., 6101 Yellowstone Rd. Identifies and provides treatment for persons who have been diagnosed with active TB disease. Program funds support testing, offers preventive therapy to those who are infected and screens members of high risk population groups who may be at risk for TB disease. Partners, family members or others who may be contacts to persons infected are interviewed, assessed and screened as well. This program is 100 percent federally funded through the Centers for Disease Control and
Rural and Frontier Health
Suite 510, Qwest Bldg., 6101 Yellowstone Rd., Cheyenne WY 82002 Fax (307) 777-8545
Deputy Administrator, Sharla Allen, (307) 777-7293
Community Service Programs Includes the Community Services Block Grant, Emergency Shelter Grant, End Stage Renal Disease and Wyoming Cares/Wyoming Shares Organ Donation Program.
Manager, Jim Rolf (307) 777-8652
Organ Donor WY Cares/WY Shares and End Stage Renal Disease, Cherame Serrano (307) 777-3527
Community Services Block Grant, Emergency Shelter Grant, Tricia Dean (307) 777-8940
Multicultural Health Serves as a central point for the exchange of information and assistance in improving the health status of Wyoming’s minority, underserved, and under-represented populations.
Manager, Lillian Zuniga, (307) 777-5601
State Partnership Grant, Vacant (307) 777-5007
Rural Health, Office of Promotes collaboration in expanding comprhensive, community based primary care services in the rural/frontier communities of Wyoming.
Wyoming Healthcare Provider Loan Repayment Program, Jeff Hopkins (307) 777-2930
Medicare Rural Hospital Flexibility Grant, Sharla Allen (307) 777-7293
Community Healthcare Assessment Grants, Sharla Allen (307) 777-7293
Hospital Improvement Grants, Sharla Allen (307) 777-7293
Small Hospital Improvement Grants, Sharla Allen (307) 777-7293
State Office of Rural Health, Sharla Allen (307) 777-7293
Primary Care Office, Jeff Hopkins (307) 777-2930
Healthcare Provider Shortage Area, Jeff Hopkins (307) 777-2930
Rural Health Clinics, Jeff Hopkins (307) 777-2930
J-1 Conrad 30 Visa Waiver Program, Jeff Hopkins (307) 777-2930
National Health Service Corps, Jeff Hopkins (307) 777-2930
Physician Recruitment Program, Jeff Hopkins (307) 777-2930
Public Information Officer (Media Relations)
Kim Deti, (307) 777-6420, Hathaway Bldg., 4th Flr.
State Health Officer, Dr. Wendy Braund (307) 777-8603
Executive Assistant, Mirandie Peterson (307) 777-8603
Qwest Bldg., Suite 420 Fax (307) 777-3617
Vital Statistics Services
Jim McBride, Manager, (307) 777-6040, Hathaway Bldg., 1st Flr. Registers Wyoming births, deaths, marriages, and divorces; issues certified copies; corrects records; substitutes birth records after adoption and paternity determination; and compiles and analyzes mortality and natality statistics.