The most popular themes for American attendees were the future of healthcare with regard to the regulation of information and discussions over whether it is feasible in the healthcare sector to wait for the upcoming 2012 elections.
The opening speech at the Expo Center, given by Biz Stone, the co-founder of Twitter, featured advance announcements of stand-out ideas and set out the schedule for the rest of the days, which was also published each morning on a large panel in the central hall, with tweets being shared between different conferences, workshops and educational seminars using the hashtag #HIMSS12.
On Thursday, Farzad Mostashari, MD, National Healthcare Information Technology Coordinator, made important announcements regarding the many changes in federal policy related to the criteria for meaningful use and other regulations.
Amongst the several new features on show this year what most caught the public’s attention was the mHimss chapter, which exhibited new healthcare solutions in mobile phone technology. Undoubtedly the most important innovation was the chance to take part in the event without having to get on a plane, thanks to the implementation of virtual conferences.
The results of this major exchange of ideas, knowledge and advances in ehealth will surely continue to resonate for the rest of the year. It is likely that the achievements of the conference will become apparent throughout the rest of 2012, providing solutions and important contributions for the growth of the sector in our countries.
