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Reflections from the Georgia HIMSS Conference: Driving Digital Transformation in Healthcare

Writer's picture: Joseph TollisonJoseph Tollison

The annual Georgia HIMSS conference brought together leaders and innovators from across the healthcare landscape, and this year’s event did not disappoint. With strategic learning tracks covering cybersecurity, artificial intelligence (AI), and digital transformation, the conference offered practical insights into how healthcare organizations (HCOs) in Georgia can adapt and thrive in an increasingly digital world.


Insights from the Digital Transformation Track

I had the opportunity to attend the digital transformation (IT) track, which was packed with engaging sessions and interactive panels. We heard from experts representing major Georgia-based healthcare organizations like Grady Health System, Shepherd Center, and the Georgia Hospital Association. One theme stood out: success in digital transformation is not just about implementing technology ...it’s about empowering people.





Key Takeaways:

  • Change Management is Critical: One of the most impactful discussions centered on the importance of change management, a concept often overshadowed by project management. Valerie emphasized the importance of focusing on the end state and outcomes for people, not just checking boxes on training or processes. It's about ensuring that teams are equipped to succeed, a point echoed by many speakers.

  • Business Cases and Leadership Buy-In: In one of the panels, speakers like Steven McWilliams and Murry Ford discussed how to make strong business cases for technology investments within healthcare organizations. They highlighted that the key to success is inspiring teams and addressing barriers to adoption, whether it’s bridging generational gaps in the workforce or making tough decisions during crises like Hurricane Helene.


Learning from Real-World Challenges

The impact of Hurricane Helene loomed large over many conversations. Several hospitals across the Southeast, including those in Georgia, had to revert to using paper records during the storm. This situation served as a stark reminder of what truly matters in healthcare technology: the people and processes behind it. While technology can streamline operations and improve outcomes, the crisis revealed that when it comes down to it, what really counts is how quickly and effectively teams can adapt, even without the "bells and whistles" of high-tech systems.

The People Factor: Murry Ford, now overseeing revenue at Grady, brought a unique perspective as someone who transitioned from an IT role to a business leadership position. His insight into the prioritization of initiatives showed that focusing on outcomes and cross-functional alignment is critical to navigating the complex healthcare environment.


Balancing Regulatory Compliance and Innovation

Another topic discussed at length was the tension between regulatory compliance and the speed of digital transformation. Industry experts, including Sepi Browning and Jeff Morrison, shared their experiences with improving patient care while navigating the challenges of regulatory requirements. Although these regulations often slow the pace of change, they also serve as a forcing function, aligning teams around a shared goal. As Todd Schlesinger pointed out, once mandates are in place, the ability to execute is clear, it’s just a matter of prioritization and leadership.


Conclusion

The Georgia HIMSS conference was a great reminder of the incredible culture and people who are the connective tissue of healthcare in this state. From interactive discussions on digital transformation to insights on crisis management and compliance, the event highlighted that healthcare’s future depends not just on technology but on the people who make it work. As we continue to innovate, we must remember that true transformation happens when we empower our teams, prioritize the patient experience, and execute with purpose.


I’m already looking forward to next year’s Georgia HIMSS event. Until then, let’s keep building a stronger, more connected healthcare community in Georgia.



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