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Stepping into the future of healthcare technology
Attending HIMSS25 was like stepping into a vivid depiction of the future, where technology and healthcare converge seamlessly. As a first-time participant representing my university, I had the privilege of immersing myself in one of the most significant healthcare technology conferences in the world. Over the course of four exhilarating days, I engaged in enlightening sessions, received a professional headshot, enhanced my LinkedIn profile, and explored groundbreaking innovations that are redefining healthcare.
If you’re a student in Health IT or Informatics pondering whether HIMSS26 is worth your time, let me assure you: it is an invaluable experience!
The impact of keynote speakers
Every day at HIMSS25 commenced with a keynote session that set the stage for the day’s discussions. These sessions were not merely motivational speeches; they were packed with insights into the future trajectory of healthcare technology. Each keynote offered a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities within the industry.
- Opening Keynote: Dr. Seung-woo Park from Samsung Medical Center spoke about how digital health transformation, artificial intelligence (AI), and electronic medical records (EMRs) are revolutionizing patient care while highlighting the importance of maintaining a human touch.
- Day Two Keynote: General Paul Nakasone addressed the pressing issues surrounding cybersecurity in healthcare, emphasizing the need for robust digital health defenses against AI-driven threats.
- Closing Keynote: Simone Biles shared her inspiring journey, focusing on resilience and mental health advocacy. Her story resonated deeply with the themes of success in both sports and healthcare careers.
These keynote sessions offered a sweeping overview of industry trends and provided me with ample food for thought regarding my future career in healthcare technology.
Networking opportunities and professional development
HIMSS25 was a treasure trove of networking opportunities. I had the chance to connect with professionals from various sectors, including hospitals, tech companies, and even government agencies. Many of these individuals could potentially become future employers or collaborators in my career journey.
A crucial piece of advice: bring a handful of business cards. Despite the digital age, personal introductions remain vital. The connections made at HIMSS can significantly influence your career path.
Another highlight was the Career Connect hub, which offered essential career support for students and professionals alike. I utilized the professional headshot booth because, let’s face it, my last decent photo was taken three years ago at a family wedding!
Additionally, I had my resume evaluated by industry experts, who provided invaluable feedback on how to elevate its appeal in the competitive healthcare IT job market. The LinkedIn profile review was equally beneficial, offering actionable tips for enhancing my online visibility to attract job opportunities.
Global innovations on display
HIMSS is not just a national event; it serves as a global platform for healthcare innovation. Exhibitors from countries like Taiwan, Israel, Korea, India, and various European nations showcased cutting-edge technologies aimed at addressing diverse healthcare challenges. From AI-driven diagnostics in Korea to blockchain-enabled patient records in Estonia, the conference underscored the international evolution of healthcare IT.
The exhibit hall felt like a theme park for technology enthusiasts, brimming with AI tools, cybersecurity advancements, and next-gen telemedicine solutions. One of my favorite experiences was participating in the ‘Agentforce’ workshop by Salesforce, where I gained hands-on experience in developing an AI assistant capable of handling client inquiries in real time. This tool has practical applications in my current job and can significantly enhance customer engagement.
Another exciting innovation showcased was the pediatric AI robots designed for young cancer patients. These robots offered companionship, emotional support, and medical guidance—illustrating how technology can enrich human connections in healthcare settings.
Preparing for HIMSS26
Before attending HIMSS25, I underestimated the scale of the conference. With so many exhibit halls, networking sessions, keynote addresses, and career events, it was easy to feel overwhelmed. I learned the hard way that pre-planning is essential; I missed several targeted sessions simply because I lost my way or didn’t allocate enough time to transition between events.
Reflecting on my experience, there are a few things I would do differently next time, and I encourage future attendees to consider the following:
- Prioritize your schedule: Identify key sessions and speakers you want to see and plan your day accordingly.
- Stay organized: Use the conference app to navigate the venue and set reminders for sessions.
- Network strategically: Don’t hesitate to introduce yourself to professionals and exchange contact information.
For students eager to enter the healthcare technology field, attending HIMSS26 is not just beneficial; it’s imperative. The insights, connections, and experiences gained from HIMSS25 will resonate far beyond the conference, shaping my perspective and career path.
Mark your calendars for HIMSS26, taking place from March 9-13, 2026, in Las Vegas, NV, USA. It promises to be another extraordinary opportunity to explore the future of healthcare technology. I hope to see you there!