The Ultimate Guide to HIMSS19 For New and Seasoned Attendees
Calling all champions of healthcare, it’s almost time to gather amongst 45,000+ health professionals at HIMSS19! This year’s conference is happening in Orlando, FL at the Orange County Convention Center. HIMSS is bringing more to the table than ever before and the week’s agenda will focus on a combination of recurring and new global healthcare topics.
So why should you attend? Not only will you connect with your healthcare peers, but you will also get a 5-day in-depth experience of powerful education from world-renowned healthcare and innovation leaders. It sounds overwhelming, but the week will be full of opportunities for you to connect with experts and advance your professional skills.
It’s important to plan out your days before attending a large conference–whether you’ve attended in the past, or you’re attending for the first time. This year’s HIMSS19 is filled with cutting edge exhibitions you don’t want to miss.
In this blog post, we’ve outlined some of the best exhibits, sessions, and networking events you can add to your list.
Keep scrolling to learn more about our HIMSS contest!
What’s Included in Your Registration?
Whether you’re a seasoned HIMSS attendee or a newbie, let’s outline what’s included in your registration so you can make the most out of your time at the event.
HIMSS19 Full Conference Registration includes:
- Access to keynote sessions
- Opening reception
- All education sessions Tuesday–Friday unless otherwise noted
- Exhibition Floor Tuesday–Thursday
- HIMSS19 Career Fair (separate registration required)
- Orientations (first-timers, about HIMSS, for students only)
- On-site tote bag, pocket guide and resource guide
- Access to all recorded general education sessions
Do-Not-Miss Sessions and Forums
Industry Solutions | Tuesday, February 12th - Thursday February 14th
Industry Solution Sessions are a great opportunity to receive the most up-to-date case studies on topics important to the healthcare IT industry. During this 3-day long session, attendees will dive into the heart of the issues that concern the industry as a whole.
Blockchain | Wednesday, February 13th
What is real in blockchain? Is it secure, private, and compliant with regulations? Learn how this technology will fundamentally change how payers and providers share claims information, and how a patient’s medical records are shared and updated as she moves through the care continuum. This interactive educational program consists of 3 sessions–from 8:30 am-12:30 pm, so you can choose what time fits into your schedule.
Nervous About Connecting With Other Professionals?
Networking can be a combination of exciting and overwhelming, especially at large conferences. If you consider yourself an introvert, check out our blog post on 8 ways you can step up your networking game to maximize your experience at HIMMS19.
And here are some great networking events that will be happening throughout the week:
HIMSS19 Opening Reception | Monday, February 11 | 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
This year’s opening reception is superhero-themed! Don't forget to pack your favorite superhero costume–all guests are encouraged to come dressed up in costume.
Breakfast Sessions | Wednesday, February 13th, and Thursday, February 14th | 7:30-8:30 am
Did someone say breakfast? These networking breakfasts are followed by a panel discussion on interoperability, post-acute care, blockchain, and ongoing health initiatives.
Career Fair | Wednesday, February 13th | 8:30 am - 3:30 pm
Whether you're new to the health information and technology field or seasoned professional, discover a wide range of resources to enhance and advance your career at the HIMSS19 Career Fair. This event is free, however, attendees must register so you can upload your resume and contact information for employers.
Know Before You Go Tips & Tricks
HIMSS19 Is Going Mobile
Get the latest information on educational sessions, exhibitor listings, floor maps, networking opportunities, headline news, and more with the official app. Download at the App Store or Google Play and search “HIMSS19.”
Pick Up a Map When You Arrive
Reference maps in the on-site pocket guide and throughout the conference center will be available to navigate your way to education sessions, the exhibit hall, and networking events. There’s a lot of ground to cover to utilizing the maps will save you time and energy during your attendance.
Wear Your Conference Badge On-Site
Be sure to wear your badge at all times during HIMSS19 – but be sure to take it off when you leave the convention center. Badge pickup will be available at the Orlando International Airport (MCO), and at several Orlando hotels and at the Orange County Convention Center.
Get A Ride With Healthcare IT Leaders!
Like we said, there’s a lot of ground to cover at the conference and you won’t want to walk in that Orlando heat. That’s why we’re offering free pedicab rides to all HIMSS19 attendees! Just look for our logo'd cabs outside the convention center to hitch a ride.
Roll With The Leaders Bike Contest
It’s time to get in touch with your competitive side. Healthcare IT Leaders is committed to helping healthcare employers have a smooth healthcare IT experience. So to get you started on that journey, we’re giving away a 2019 Domane SL 5— the ideal road bike for smooth riding and efficiency. Enter the contest here.
Have a Great Time!
At the end of the day, it's okay if you can't see and do it all while you're at the conference. Schedule out your agenda as much as you can, but leave yourself a little free time for impromptu meetings and moments of relaxation. Be sure to reflect on all you have learned and utilize the information to advance your healthcare IT career.
Still haven’t registered? There’s still time. You can register for HIMSS19 here.
