We were thrilled to see so many gathered at our Inaugural Health Care Transformation Summit today to address one of the most pressing issues facing businesses and employees alike.
Our CEO Vanessa Green Sinders kicked off the event, which ends tomorrow, with why the organization held the event and is championing collaboration among all stakeholders. Below is a condensed version of her remarks:
“The Indiana Chamber and its Wellness Council of Indiana firmly believe that health is wealth. We believe the right approach is investing in Hoosier health today instead of paying down the road – when the cost will be even greater.
“Having healthy, prosperous communities and citizens is so vital that we included the aspiration as one of the six pillars in Indiana Prosperity 2035, our recently released long-term visioning plan for the state.
Indiana proudly has built one of the country’s most competitive business and economic climates. But we also must be willing to identify, discuss and act on difficult matters surrounding the health of Hoosiers in order for us to continue to prosper as citizens and as an economy.
“As we navigate the complexities of providing quality health care coverage in an ever-evolving landscape, this conference serves as a crucial platform for dialogue, collaboration and innovation. Over the next two days, we’ll explore strategies, share insights and engage in discussions aimed at enhancing health care accessibility, affordability and quality for employers and their workforce. Together, we’ll work toward building a healthier, more resilient future for all of us.
“The health care system in America is one that is constantly transforming. There are new products entering the market both in the provider world and the insurance industry realm. Many of you in this room, and the Chamber membership at-large, have different perspectives on this critical area. But we all know the importance of health on a personal level. And that improving Hoosier health is also vital for job attraction, expansion and retention efforts, as businesses need a healthy workforce to keep pace with competition and to grow their own talent pipeline.
“Our desire with this summit is to give you more information so you can make better decisions for health care options at your workplace. Most importantly, we hope these options improve the health outcomes of your employees and your communities, and in turn help your business continue to grow and prosper.
“We must work together to tackle the state’s very poor health and welfare ratings. We can do that by implementing collaborative strategies that reduce smoking, obesity and substance abuse crises, improve access to quality public health services and contain health care costs. We hope your attendance here today is a step toward making your workplace and community healthier.
“We have a tremendous opportunity in Indiana. … We can make thoughtful, strategic improvements in health care and transform from one of the least healthy populations to a state clearly moving in the right direction. Initiatives like Health First Indiana, that has injected much needed funding into public health programs across Indiana, have been crucial initial steps. But we can’t stop moving forward, and the Indiana Chamber and Wellness Council of Indiana are excited to work with you and other stakeholders to achieve a healthier Indiana.”
