Gov. Tim Pawlenty and former U.S. House Speaker Newt Gingrich are both speaking at a health care forum workshop this afternoon in Minneapolis.

"Creating a 21st Century Intelligent Health System in Minnesota" opens at 11 this morning at the University of Minnesota's McNamara Alumni Center.

Panel topics include health care technology, diabetes treatment and wellness and consumerism. Minnesota Human Services Commissioner Cal Ludeman will also speak.

The event is sponsored by Gingrich's Center for Health Transformation and will be webcast live at www.healthtransformation.net

Since retiring in 1999 after 20 years in Congress, Gingrich has worked extensively on the issues of health and health care. The Republican from Georgia founded the center In 2003, a collaboration of public- and private-sector leaders seeking to overhaul health care to make it perform better and save money.

Pawlenty, who is not seeking reelection as Minnesota's governor, and Gingrich are both on many early lists as potential candidates for the Republican nomination for president in 2012.

Paul Walsh • 612-673-4482