WHA statement on Walker’s healthcare training grants

Walker Administration Announces Health Care Training Grants

WHA Applauds Focus on Expanding the Health Care Workforce

Attribute this statement to WHA President/CEO Eric Borgerding in response to Gov. Scott Walker’s announcement of an additional $3 million in Fast Forward grants for health care organizations:

“Wisconsin hospitals depend on a skilled workforce to continue delivering some of the highest quality health care in the country. Health care professionals in technical positions, like those being targeted in today’s Fast Forward grant announcement, are critical members of a patient’s care team. These positions are facing significant shortages in Wisconsin hospitals and are experiencing higher turnover rates than most other health care professions.

Wisconsin’s ability to continue to deliver high-quality health care is not only important to our patients, it is also a significant factor in a business owner’s decision to relocate or expand in our state. High-quality, high-value health care is an economic development asset in our local communities. WHA members’ ability to hire and retain a skilled workforce is essential to the continued success of our health care delivery system.

WHA applauds the Governor’s announcement today and encourages him to continue making investments in Wisconsin’s health care workforce. The state has a vested interest in ensuring that health care organizations are able to meet the health care needs of Wisconsin families and employers.”