@HIMSS should use next week to host a real-time connectathon to demonstrate and release open source components that can be adopted by healthcare organizations and vendors to accelerate data sharing, visualization, AI, research, resource deployment, situational awareness, etc. /4
Attendees of this targeted connectathon should be prepared to self-quarantine after the meeting in the event that events indicate that they are at risk of spreading COVID-19. /4.5
This bold decision to cancel #HIMSS20 could flip an existential challenge into HIMSS finest hour. Case studies will look at this defining moment as a critical factor in slowing the spread of COVID-19 and in demonstrating the power of IT to transform healthcare. /5
HIMSS needs to be very transparent about the rationale that is going into their go/no-go decision — including naming the panel of experts advising them on their decision and documenting the evidence they are using. /6
*If HIMSS chooses not to cancel:*
HIMSS should modify their no-refund policy for individuals to opt to rollover their registration to 2021. Attendees with health conditions that increase their risk of death or severe illness should they be exposed to and contract COVID-19. /7
HIMSS should modify their no-refund policy for individuals to opt to rollover their registration to 2021. Attendees with health conditions that increase their risk of death or severe illness should they be exposed to and contract COVID-19. /7
At a minimum, HIMSS should make refunds available to individuals who have a physician’s statement that they are at risk. /8
HIMSS should take steps to ensure that those exhibitors that have chosen to withdraw their participation will not be penalized in terms of future exhibition standing. /9
They are putting their employees, patients, and customers over their immediate business interests to make this difficult choice. To give special preference to vendors that chose to attend would send a very concerning message about HIMSS’ priorities and practices. /10
Regarding, the keynote by President Trump:
HIMSS needs to be clear about how it intends to enforce their published conference rules, which state, “Event Participants are expected to behave responsibly and to treat each other - and treat the community... /11
HIMSS needs to be clear about how it intends to enforce their published conference rules, which state, “Event Participants are expected to behave responsibly and to treat each other - and treat the community... /11
“...with respect, kindness, and compassion. HIMSS reserves the right, without refund, to revoke the Credentials of Participants whose conduct is deemed inappropriate, disorderly, or offensive by HIMSS, affiliated third parties or the local authorities.” /12
Specifically, will attendees be permitted to communicate displeasure with statements made by the President without concern that they could face ejection from the conference? /13
Please also confirm that the President’s keynote will be open only to registered HIMSS20 attendees. There have been unsubstantiated rumors that this single event will be open to non-registrants. If true, this would be a very troubling development. /14
As longtime HIMSS member and leader, I am committed to the organizational and financial health of this important organization. HIMSS volunteers give hundreds of hours to this organization because we believe in the importance of the HIMSS’ mission... /15
...of reforming the global health ecosystem through the power of information and technology. We can work together to find ways to ensure that this powerful decision to forego sort-term revenues for long-term relevance will be rewarded. /16
If you’ve made it this far, thanks for reading. This is a dynamic moment in our history. We have an opportunity to make a real impact by working thoughtfully and intentionally. To sign a petition urging @HIMSS to cancel #HIMSS20, go here: chng.it/jNNhZ6hRDz /end
