Perspective: See You in Washington

The AHA’s 49th Annual Membership Meeting, May 6-9, comes at a critical time for the hospital and health care field. And its theme – Redefining the “H” – could not be more appropriate.

Hospitals and health systems are being challenged like never before to respond to new disruptors at every turn. They are being called on to redefine themselves as they take on more responsibility for population health and keeping people well, and to rethink the way they deliver care to provide greater value and a more patient-centric experience.

The Annual Meeting is the place for health care leaders such as yourself to come together with leading political and policy thinkers to create a dynamic future of health for our country that meets these challenges head on, and more. The meeting also provides the opportunity for you to spend time with your federal legislators to help educate them on key issues affecting the field. We’ve secured a number of hospital priorities already this year, but that doesn’t mean our work is done. Your lawmakers need to hear from you how your organization is innovating to create greater value and improve affordability; including forming new models and partnerships to deliver care … how you are providing benefits to your communities far beyond patient care as you address the social determinants of health and your community’s unique needs … how you are working on the frontlines of the opioid crisis to restore health and heal fractured lives and families … and more.

Early bird rates are available for only one more week, so please register today. I urge you to take this opportunity to join hundreds of your health care colleagues and thought leaders in Washington, D.C. Hope to see you in May!