Suddenly, we’re in the year 2013, preparing to face new opportunities and challenges.

With all that is going on in health IT, it’s hard to imagine how we can get any busier. But taking time off over the holidays compelled me to reflect on both the accomplishments and challenges of the past year. It was also a good time to catch my breath and think about personal goals before getting caught up once again in the intense, day-to-day grind.

In a recent blog, I wrote about my choice to pursue two certifications as a way to represent different aspects of my content knowledge and experience. Today, I want to talk about advancement, also called fellowship, and consider its value to an individual.

The purpose of any advancement or fellowship program is to recognize an organization’s members who have provided substantial service and contributions, with an emphasis on the member’s professional growth and participation. HIMSS advancement program recognizes members for their contribution of knowledge and experience to the healthcare industry.  Advancing within HIMSS also makes the individual eligible for leadership opportunities within the Society, such as positions with the board of directors, and becoming recognized as a thought leader.

While the application process can seem daunting, the reward comes at the end. Active HIMSS members are recognized for their dedication to the Society and industry, when they become a Senior or Fellow member. Advanced membership recognizes past contributions, but also comes with expectations for continuing participation and contribution to HIMSS, the Society and the industry.

Here are a few testimonials from recently appointed HIMSS Fellows:

How has HIMSS Fellowship helped you advance your career? Being a HIMSS Fellow has given me professional recognition and opened up new leadership opportunities, such as being on the HIMSS Board of Directors. In universities, gaining tenure and promotion includes service to the community. Being a Fellow was an objective accomplishment that demonstrated my service to the healthcare informatics community and was a consideration in my attainment of tenure and promotion to professor. Willa Fields, DNSc, RN, FHIMSS; Chair, HIMSS Board of Directors; Professor, School of Nursing, San Diego State University

What value do you find in being a HIMSS Fellow? Being a HIMSS Fellow bonds me to the organization; for what I give, I get back ten-fold. I believe I have a stake in the success of HIMSS supporting the mission of “Transforming healthcare through IT” through my activities. Susan K. Newbold, RN, FAAN, PhD, FHIMSS; Healthcare Consultant; Nursing Informatics Boot Camp

What was the key factor that motivated you to seek HIMSS Fellowship? HIMSS Fellows are some of the best contributors to the advancement of our industry, and I wanted to be represented in their ranks. It is important for the HIMSS organization to have key health IT Leaders as Fellows, but it is also an important recognition for the individual.  Judy Murphy, RN, FACMI, FAAN, FHIMSS; Deputy National Coordinator for Programs & Policy; ONC

At its December meeting, the HIMSS Board of Directors approved 20 individuals as Life, Fellow and Senior Members. Most likely you know some of them as your colleagues, or you might recognize other’s names. These leaders now join previously recognized HIMSS Fellow Members in leading healthcare transformation through the effective use of health IT.

I encourage you to consider joining their ranks to demonstrate your service to HIMSS and the healthcare industry. Oh, and if recognition is not enough of an incentive, there is an exciting Awards Banquet planned for New Orleans to honor these individuals for their accomplishments. We wouldn’t let an opportunity like this go by without a party!

Are you considering applying for HIMSS fellowship? There are many resources available to help you get started. Feel free to reach out to me, or any current Fellow for advice.

If you are already a HIMSS Fellow, I would be interested in hearing about what it means to you, or if advancement has made a difference in your career. And, I look forward to continuing our conversation in the New Year.