Like many events over the past year, the Health Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS) 2020 conference was canceled by the organization due to the pandemic. HIMSS is the world’s largest health information and technology show, so the decision was difficult—especially since it was one of the first conferences to make that call. This year, HIMSS21 is poised to return with both in-person and virtual elements Aug. 9-13 in Las Vegas.
Look Left’s Davida Dinerman recently spoke with HIMSS Vice President, Meeting Services and Sales Karen Malone and HIMSS Vice President, Professional Development JoAnn Klinedinst about lessons learned from 2020 and what to expect from this year’s new hybrid event.
02:18 - Karen shares insight into the decision to cancel HIMSS 2020 because of the pandemic.
04:18- Karen on the future of HIMSS21 and what plans they’re making to potentially be in-person.
06:19 - Despite the uncertainty of the HIMSS21 format, JoAnn says speaking and presentation submissions for this year’s show are strong.
07:19 - JoAnn talks about some of the new presentation categories, some of which reflect the reality of the pandemic.
09:11 - JoAnn details the many ways attendees can participate in HIMSS presentations.
09:52 - Karen discusses the big company vs. startup ratio at HIMSS.
10:57 - Karen on how startups and innovation are driving the healthcare industry.
11:45 - JoAnn explains why the show is evolving away from social media ambassadors to influential change-makers.
14:15 - Karen shares tips for first-time attendees.
16:16 - Karen offers a glimpse into new features for HIMSS this year
17:13 - According to Karen, the pandemic has unquestionably changed HIMSS’ approach to event planning.
18:33 - JoAnn and Karen share what occupation they’d pursue if they weren’t in their current roles.
19:43 - Karen talks about the various benefits of the traditional HIMSS venues — Chicago, Las Vegas and Orlando.
