I’ve had many conversations  on this topic with senior executives from multiple healthcare delivery organizations across the country.  I’ve spoken with presidents and CEOs, CFOs, CMOs, COOs and others from organizations ranging in size from large multi-hospital systems to relatively small ambulatory organizations.  There was unanimous agreement that this topic is one of the most challenging issues they face.

One of the conversations that struck me the most was with a CMO.  He stated that when the term “ROI” is used, most folks think about financial metrics.  He agreed that financial metrics are certainly important, but in healthcare, ROI should be more about value. 

The problem is, we haven’t yet figured out how to put words to value so that we can build a replicable ROI model that helps leadership teams decide on the most value-added IT investments for the organization.

In comes the new HIMSS Leaders & Innovators Program launched last month.  This program is a year-round initiative built from four components:  events, a community of profession, research, and networking. 

The objective of this program is to engage and include ALL stakeholders in discussions, such as “Is it possible to achieve ROI from health IT investments?” 

Over the past couple of years, health IT has grown in significance in the overall healthcare reform debate.  That’s why it is critically important that we create a venue in which all senior provider executives have an opportunity to take part in health IT discussions.

Our first such discussion will take place November 16-18 at the Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort in Florida.  I’m excited about tackling the ROI topic head on and engaging in conversations with the outstanding line-up of speakers and the senior provider executives who are attending.  

If you’re a senior executive in a healthcare delivery organization, I’d like to hear what you think about this new program, and…I’d especially like to see you in November in Florida.