Telling the story of how healthcare quality can help build a strong economy while better connecting young tech-based businesses with the state’s leading healthcare providers are among the missions of the Wisconsin Healthcare Business Forum.

The board of directors for the Healthcare Business Forum met Dec. 17 to organize and review the mission of the WHBF. It will create a forum for members of the business community, hospitals, health systems and others to talk about challenges and to work together to improve health quality while knitting together resources that will allow the sector to flourish.

Activities will include sharing best practices and innovations through events, publications and roundtables; connecting emerging high-tech companies with providers; and using compelling stories and examples to connect with policymakers and the news media.

Founding organizations are the Wisconsin Hospital Association and the Wisconsin Technology Council. Other board members thus far represent Advocate Aurora, Froedtert Hospital, Marshfield Clinic, UW Health, GE Healthcare and Godfrey & Kahn.

“Like most states, Wisconsin must compete to attract and retain talented workers and companies. One major selling point is Wisconsin’s reputation for providing high-quality healthcare, year in and year out,” said Eric Borgerding, president of WHA and vice chairman of the WHBF. “Wisconsin has ranked among the nation’s top four states in healthcare quality in 10 of the last 12 years, according to the leading federal study. The latest Commonwealth study shows Wisconsin costs below the U.S. average. Few states have the same record.”

“One of the best ways to build upon Wisconsin’s healthcare quality is to ensure it remains innovative and ahead of the curve,” said Tom Still, president of the Tech Council and chairman of WHBF. “That’s where the state’s startup and emerging companies help by providing new tests, devices, therapies and software that can improve care, efficiency, reporting and more.”

To learn more about the Wisconsin Healthcare Business Forum or to join as a member, visit wishealthbizforum.com or contact Angela Schlobohm at 608-442-7557 x2.