July 14, 2026 | Healthcare Is Carrying Oregon’s Economy. That Should Worry Us.
Oregon’s healthcare sector has bolstered the state’s post-pandemic labor market. But the same forces challenging the broader economy—slow population growth, high housing costs, worker shortages, taxes and regulation—are uniquely bearing down on healthcare.
In this presentation and extended audience Q&A session, economic and public policy strategist John Tapogna explained why health care is both a pillar of Oregon’s economy and a worrisome harbinger for its future. The question is not simply whether Oregon can sustain its health care system. It is whether Oregon can build the workforce, competitiveness and policy environment that the system will require.
Featuring
John Tapogna – President, Oregon Business Council
John Tapogna is President of the Oregon Business Council, a CEO-led organization representing many of Oregon’s largest employers and working to strengthen the state’s long-term economic competitiveness and prosperity. He previously served as President of ECOnorthwest and has spent nearly three decades advising governments, foundations and business leaders on economic strategy and public policy. John currently focuses on several structural pressures shaping Oregon’s future—housing supply, education performance, wildfire management, tax competitiveness and regulatory and land-use constraints. He also serves as Board Chair of Oregon Public Broadcasting.
Annual Sponsors
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To discuss forum sponsorship opportunities, please contact Kim Crosby at kim@oregonhealthforum.org
