Madison Reporter

Today, UW Health Kids and Children’s Wisconsin have announced a new joint venture to enhance pediatric cardiac and adult congenital heart care services. The collaboration, known as Forward Pediatric Alliance, aims to expand patient access and improve the quality of care.

Scott Turner, executive vice president of Children’s Wisconsin and president and chief operating officer of Children’s Wisconsin Hospitals, stated, “We have the opportunity to align the incredible work our organizations do. We are committed to working together to enable the best health outcomes for our pediatric heart patients.”

The alliance is designed to advance research and train future pediatric cardiac care providers. Nikki Stafford, president of American Family Children’s Hospital and system vice president of pediatric services at UW Health Kids, commented on this goal: “This alliance will better help us attract and retain the best pediatric cardiac care providers. We’ll be working together to solve complex problems and ensure our future patients have access to the best quality pediatric cardiac care.”

Congenital heart disease affects nearly one in 100 births annually. Dr. Peter Bartz from Herma Heart Institute at Children’s Wisconsin expressed his optimism: “We know having a diagnosis of heart disease can be scary for parents, and we want to do everything we can to put their minds at ease.” He looks forward to enhancing the already high level of care provided by their teams.

Dr. Petros Anagnostopoulos from UW School of Medicine emphasized their mission: “It’s our mission to ensure as many children as possible live full, healthy lives, free from lifelong complications due to congenital heart disease.”

The initial agreement spans 10 years with full implementation expected within three years. Turner noted that creating an integrated network will take time but is confident about aligning strengths between both organizations.

No changes are anticipated in provider employment or facility names. Most existing patients will continue with their current providers; however, some staff may serve at both institutions when beneficial for patient care.

Stafford highlighted what sets this alliance apart: “What makes this alliance unique is that it is made up of two high-quality programs collaborating to ensure kids and families will have access to the best care into the future.”