Dissecting the “Obvious”

As a program manager in the marketing department, I enjoy thinking creatively about language and how a word’s meaning often uncovers more than what is “obvious” at first glance.

Let’s take a closer look at HIMSS’ tagline, “transforming healthcare through IT”, and the implications behind it.

• __________
  • The most notable element is the implied word NOT there: Who is transforming healthcare?
  • You individually, We/Us collectively
  • People who believe in the vision and mission of HIMSS
• transforming
  • A path of many steps
  • Constant change that is often imperfect
  • Live and actionable!
• healthcare
  • Patients first
  • Driven by outcomes
  • Diverse settings
  • Diverse personnel: everyone plays a role, no matter title or job description
• through
• IT
  • Vital and fundamental
  • Complex
  • Lifeblood of an organization

With all these thoughts in mind, we could say that HIMSS’ tagline is really, “YOU are joining forces with like-minded individuals who are actively, constantly transforming and bettering patients’ healthcare outcomes—in diverse environments, no matter job title—through the vital use of increasingly complex IT. You are the advocate for powerful, positive change!”  

That’s a lot to consider.   

You’ll notice just how active this tagline becomes when we really dissect it. Heck, it becomes more than a tagline—it becomes a rallying cry for a cause that you’ve boldly raised your hand to be a part of.

Just as you transform healthcare, we are transforming the way you learn and experience HIMSS offerings. Consider the upcoming Virtual Conference & Expo happening in November. That’s a prime example of something none of us could fathom ten years ago—sitting at the convenience of our personal computers or using mobile devices to attend a dynamic conference with thousands of others…chatting with exhibitors, messaging peers, attending educational sessions on meaningful use.  What about simply reading this blog? Or connecting with HIMSS members on Twitter or Facebook?  Think about all the progress made to empower you with information and education you need.

I’d like to know what you are doing to be an active advocate for positive change within your workplace. Beyond your job requirements, how are you personally “transforming healthcare through IT”?