With an amazing agenda of speakers and networking opportunities, HIMSS19 is set to be another amazing conference in sunny Orlando, Florida. As a healthcare CIO, the key to your success is being prepared. Below are eight ways to prepare yourself for HIMSS19.
1) Start Your HIMSS19 Research Early
With HIMSS being the largest healthcare IT conference of the year, it's a no-brainer that your planning has to start early. Preparing early allows for a smoother process, ease of mind and keeps you in-check with your goals for the conference.
2) Set up Your Meetings in Advance
Keeping tabs on your meetings during the hustle and bustle of HIMSS will absolutely help the show run smoother for everyone - your team, fellow CIOs and your potential connections. Make sure you have plenty of time to attend dinners, receptions and other events with your vendor partners and your peers.
3) Keep up to Date with HIMSS19 Checkpoints
Keeping up to date with HIMSS19 emails, blog posts, and social media is a great way to stay on top of the conference and all its encompassing events. Each year HIMSS also releases an app that bundles all you'll need to know in one easy space.
4) Schedule Time to Eat and Drink
For as much as you can prepare for HIMSS19, these handful of days will go by in a blink of an eye. It can move so fast you forget to eat or grab another coffee as you move from meetings, to education sessions, to networking events. Each morning, plan a break to sneak away for a quick bite, and remember to stay hydrated!
5) Be Selective with Your Business Cards
Be selective with who you want to connect with during your time at HIMSS by making sure you focus on what's important to you. Schedule most of your vendor meetings before you arrive in Orlando. There will literally be thousands of people who want to meet with you, trying to get your attention left and right. Remember, it's ok to say no!
6) Attend CHIME Focus Groups
CHIME Focus Groups at HIMSS are a great way to explore the topics you're interested in. As a CIO, staying up to date the current trends and technology is a must. Remember to take notes and engage with the experts in their respected fields - there will be plenty to take away from these informational sessions.
7) Be Prepared to be Busy
As we touched on before, the more ground you can cover, the better. Speaking and engaging with as of your peers and sponsors as you can during the week will lead to plenty of opportunities and connections. Gather as much information as you can during the event and explore all of your new opportunities.
8) Remember to Have Fun!
Even though we're here for business, it doesn't hurt to have some fun. There are a lot of great receptions, dinners and parties to attend in Orlando. There will be plenty of people to meet, and this is the time to do it!
Helpful links to help you navigate HIMSS19:
We can't wait to see you all in Orlando at HIMSS19. Follow our blog and social media accounts for more information about HIMSS19 in Orlando!
