The Division of Public Health announced that Bill Oemichen joined the division on May 2 to serve as Director of the Office of Preparedness and Emergency Healthcare.  The announcement was made by Wisconsin EMS Section Director James Newlun. 

Oemichen has a broad background in public health, health care and consumer protection. His experience includes leading Minnesota's food safety program where he oversaw major food safety investigations, and serving as a commissioned Officer of the U.S. Food & Drug Administration. Oemichen also served for five years as Administrator of the Wisconsin Trade and Consumer Protection Division at DATCP.

Oemichen also has extensive experience working with partners across sectors. During his 14 years as President & CEO of Cooperative Network, Oemichen worked closely with the Rural Wisconsin Health Cooperative, HealthPartners HMO, Group Health Cooperative of South Central Wisconsin (GHC-SCW), Group Health Cooperative of Eau Claire and Wisconsin Rx.