By Marie Barry, RWHC Director of Community & Economic Development

 

The COVID-19 pandemic is rarely discussed in positive terms. However, many hospitals are building new relationships with external partners during the pandemic to create a community-centered approach to combatting the virus. Additionally, the pandemic has shed a light on health’s integral role in economic well-being. Extending partnerships with healthcare institutions beyond the pandemic and integrating cross-sector approaches to development can result in healthier, more economically vibrant communities.

RWHC teamed up with the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation’s (WEDC) Downtown Development Program to showcase great examples of healthcare partnerships in communities across Wisconsin. Brian Stephens, CEO of RWHC member Door County Medical Center (DCMC), detailed DCMC’s role in opening and sustaining Door Community Child Development Center. This childcare facility supports 26 families who are employed at the hospital while providing licensed care for up to 80 children in the Sturgeon Bay and greater Door County community. This partnership is a wonderful example of how hospitals can have a large impact in the communities they serve when they team up with community partners and take on pressing needs. Watch Brian Stephens explain this project and its value to DCMC in this 14 minute video at https://bit.ly/3k5JTBe.