MONROE — The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) and Green County Public Health announced that SSM Health Monroe Clinic Medical Group in Brodhead and New Glarus have been named a “Big Shot” for their efforts to vaccinate children against diseases. “Big Shot” is an annual award given to healthcare providers who show excellence in protecting children and teens against vaccine-preventable diseases through strong immunization practices and high immunization rates. 

The recognition is given to those healthcare providers who vaccinate 90% or more of their patients 2-years-old and under, based on immunization data collected through the Wisconsin Immunization Registry (WIR). 

“We are pleased to recognize SSM Health Monroe Clinic Medical Group for their diligence in helping to keep our children healthy,” said RoAnn Warden, Green County Public Health Officer/Director. “Childhood vaccinations are critical to protecting our children and everyone around them from diseases like measles, mumps, rubella, and pertussis, among others.” 

“We believe good health starts early with vaccines to protect children from a host of diseases. It’s a responsibility we take very seriously,” said Katie Marti, SSM Health Monroe Clinic Medical Group Primary Care Services Director. “This is work our teams are focused on every day, and it’s gratifying to recognize them with this distinction.” 

The Wisconsin Immunization Program webpage shows parents which vaccinations their child needs and at what age. Parents and guardians can also look up their child’s vaccine record on the Wisconsin Immunization Registry (WIR) to make sure they are up to date.

The public announcement of the 2022 Big Shot Awardees coincides with National Infant Immunization Week (NIIW), April 24-30. NIIW is an annual observance to highlight the importance of protecting infants from vaccine-preventable diseases and to celebrate the achievements of immunization programs in promoting healthy communities throughout the United States.