Genesis lands HMO contract for Kenosha relief program. (Genesis HealthCare Inc.; health maintenance organization, Kenosha County, Wisconsin)

Genesis HealthCare Inc. of Milwaukee is negotiating to set up a health maintenance organization to provide medical care to needy Kenosha County residents.

Although changes proposed in Gov. Tommy Thompson's 1995-97 state budget could cloud general relief programs state-wide, Kenosha County officials hope to start enrolling residents in the HMO by March 1, said Gerald Schroeder, Kenosha County's economic support manager.

All Kenosha County residents who qualify for the county's general relief program would be required to enroll in the HMO program.

Under general relief, counties provide cash benefits and medical care. Kenosha County now spends nearly $1 million …