Barbara Savagian -- President's Message (continues)

The Executive Director’s Report was presented by Linda Kloss, CEO of AHIMA.  It included a review of the AHIMA Strategic Plan and financials.  Of note, there will be a $10.⁰⁰  AHIMA dues increase in 2009; $2.⁰⁰  of  that will be sent to WHIMA.  

Educational Sessions  

Sessions were presented from Saturday – Thursday.  Most any HIM topic imaginable was presented sometime during the week!  Some of the featured speakers included:  

-Chris Jordan, an internationally acclaimed photographic artist and activist, who addressed consumerism

-Kerry Weems, Acting Administrator of CMS, who gave a federal update on healthcare reform

-Linda Kloss, CEO of AHIMA, who talked about the rapid changes in HIM, how AHIMA is responding, and challenged us all to reflect on trends and directions that can effect our careers.

-Vera  Rulon, 2009 AHIMA President gave her incoming address.

-Wendy Mangin, 2008 AHIMA President opened and closed the conference with insights and reflections of her year in office.

-Christopher Gardener, the real man in the movie “The Pursuit of Happiness”, talked about his life experiences and how he overcame circumstances in the 1980’s that left him homeless and the sole guardian of his toddler son.                                                                                                             

Other highlights included the exhibit hall, President’s Premier Celebration, networking, running into old friends, and making new ones!  The national convention is an experience I would recommend to anyone. It is educational, enlightening, and a good way to “recharge your batteries”.  Consider running for a WHIMA office to be able to experience the House of Delegates, or volunteer on WHIMA Teams to establish connections and gain exposure to the national volunteer opportunities.   

The 2009 AHIMA Convention is scheduled for October 3-8, 2009, at the Gaylord Texan Resort in Grapevine, Texas (Dallas/Ft. Worth).  The call for papers is open on the AHIMA website if you would like to be considered as a presenter; other information will be posted in the near future.  

Enjoy what is left of the colors of fall, and let me know if you have any questions I can try to help you with.

Barb Savagian, RHIA
WHIMA President