What is St Francis Hospital in De Pere
St Francis Hospital in De Pere, Wisconsin, is a community hospital that provides inpatient and outpatient care within the Franciscan Healthcare system. It serves residents of Brown County and surrounding areas with a focus on accessible, patient-centered services. The hospital coordinates closely with St Mary Medical Center and other regional providers to deliver continuum care across multiple locations. Services include emergency care, surgical services, diagnostics, and specialized programs tailored to local needs.
Clinical services and specialties
The hospital offers a range of core services designed to meet everyday healthcare needs. These typically include emergency medicine, surgical procedures, imaging, laboratory services, and inpatient medical care. Specialty services may vary but often include cardiology, orthopedics, and general surgery. Primary care and outpatient clinics in the network support preventive care and chronic disease management, helping patients avoid hospitalizations when possible.
Emergency and acute care
Emergency services are available 24/7 for urgent and emergent health needs. The emergency department is staffed by board-certified emergency physicians and trained support teams. Acute care beds are reserved for patients who require short-term, intensive medical or surgical intervention. Clinical staff work with hospitalists and specialists to coordinate safe transitions from admission to discharge.
Surgical and procedural services
St Francis Hospital supports both routine and complex surgical procedures using standardized protocols. Services may include general surgery, orthopedic procedures, and minimally invasive techniques when appropriate. Preoperative evaluation and postoperative care are provided by surgical teams in collaboration with anesthesiology and nursing. Patients receive instruction on recovery timelines, warning signs, and follow-up appointments.
Location, access, and facilities
The hospital is located in De Pere, Wisconsin, within the greater Green Bay metropolitan area. Convenient access to major roads supports timely arrivals for scheduled appointments and emergencies. Onsite amenities such as parking and patient rooms are designed to accommodate individuals and families. The surrounding community offers pharmacy services, outpatient clinics, and support resources that complement hospital care.
Directions and transportation
Clear signage and local maps help visitors reach the hospital by car or public transit. Parking is generally available, though patients are encouraged to confirm current hours and availability. For those without personal transportation, community ride services and medical transport options may be available through local providers. Emergency medical services remain the fastest option for critical situations.
Care team and provider network
Patient care is delivered by a multidisciplinary team that includes physicians, nurses, therapists, pharmacists, and support staff. Many providers are board-certified in their respective specialties. The hospital maintains partnerships with larger health systems and specialty groups to expand access to subspecialists when needed. This network approach helps ensure timely consultations and coordinated treatment plans.
Scheduling and referrals
Primary care providers and specialists within the network typically manage scheduling for routine visits and procedures. Referrals to affiliated specialists are coordinated through the electronic health record, minimizing delays. Patients can often check appointment availability online or by phone. Clear pre-registration steps reduce wait times and improve the overall experience.
Admissions, discharge, and patient experience
The admissions process begins with pre-registration when possible, followed by verification of insurance and identification on arrival. During admission, patients receive a welcome packet outlining room policies, visiting hours, and care expectations. Discharge planning starts early in the stay, with social workers and case managers assisting with medications, follow-up appointments, and home health services if necessary.
What to bring and how to prepare
- Photo ID and insurance information
- Current medication list and allergies
- Comfortable clothing and personal items
- Advance directives, if applicable
Patients and families are encouraged to ask questions about care plans, pain management options, and expected recovery timelines. Bedside communication tools and family meetings help keep everyone informed and involved in decisions.
Safety, quality, and community partnerships
St Francis Hospital follows evidence-based protocols to promote patient safety and high-quality care. Infection prevention, medication safety, and fall reduction programs are integral to daily operations. The hospital reports quality metrics to national and state databases, which support transparency and continuous improvement.
Key quality indicators at a glance
| Attribute | Verified Detail or Typical Range | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Emergency department availability | 24/7 | Hospital operations policy |
| Inpatient beds (typical range) | 25–50 | Hospital capacity data |
| Primary service area | Brown County and adjacent counties | Service area maps |
| Partnerships | Franciscan Healthcare, Aurora Health Care | Public affiliation statements |
| Common specialties | Emergency medicine, orthopedics, cardiology, surgery | Directory listings and service lines |
The hospital participates in community health initiatives, such as blood drives, health screenings, and educational programs. These partnerships strengthen local access to care and provide opportunities for health promotion. Patients benefit from a coordinated system that links hospital services with primary care and public health efforts.
Insurance, billing, and financial considerations
St Francis Hospital accepts a broad range of commercial insurance plans, Medicare, and Medicaid. Financial counselors are available to help patients understand coverage, copayments, and deductibles before services are provided. Estimates for common procedures can be offered when clinically appropriate, though final costs may vary based on complexity and length of stay.
Payment options and assistance
Patients may pay bills online, by phone, or in person. Payment plans and financial assistance programs may be available to eligible individuals. Itemized statements and explanation of benefits documents help patients track charges. Clear billing communication is intended to reduce confusion and support informed financial decisions.
When to seek emergency care
Emergency services at St Francis Hospital are indicated for serious or life-threatening conditions, such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, severe bleeding, or sudden neurological changes. For less urgent concerns, urgent care centers or scheduled appointments with primary care providers are appropriate alternatives. Calling emergency services or 911 is recommended when immediate medical intervention is needed.
Summary and next steps
St Francis Hospital in De Pere provides a broad set of community-based services in a structured clinical environment. Patients can expect coordinated care across inpatient, surgical, and outpatient settings, supported by a multidisciplinary team. Those considering care are encouraged to verify network participation with their insurer, review pre-registration requirements, and prepare questions before appointments. For the most current details on specific services or programs, contacting the hospital directly or visiting the official website is recommended.