In the Spring of ’11. An assembly of industry individuals gathered at the AAMI HQ in Arlington, Virginia. This “Heinz 57” cross section of people made up of educators, in-house, ISO, OEM, parts providers, risk management and professionals at large. For about two and half days. This hybrid group brainstormed and debated. Acted out scenarios of what our profession’s future might look like. The end result was a recommendation. A naming if you will, that would bring recognition and understanding to the public of just what are we and what do we do.
Well, I was a participant. Contributor to this daring group. We took a stab at establishing a single “umbrella “name for this profession. A name that would bring connection with the public. Ordinary people would now finally know and understand what is we do. A revolution in notoriety. We all left that Spring ’11 love fest feeling pumped up! At last the world could now understand and visualize us just like when someone says “I’m a Nurse”. Everyone know what a Nurse is an does. Right?
About a week or so later. The work of this group was released The “name” that everyone in the industry was waiting to hear was announced – “Healthcare Technology Management”. The Flag was raised and the trumpet sounded! Once it was announced, I think a bomb went off in some circles. Many people were like “what”. Oh no! The “love “one can say was not really being felt. At least initially.
Since that initial future’s forum. Discussion and feedback within the profession has occurred. Healthy discussions. Pro’s and con’s to the naming. Most importantly, the people of our profession taking a realization check as to how they view themselves. How do they explain when a person asks them, “What kind of work to you do”? Those conversations can be puzzling.
The absence of a “profession’s naming” that resonates is a hurdle. Understanding, growth and development of a profession can be stymied. The influx of new people and skill sets needed to enter our profession does not meet the demand both current and future. Why is that? Fairly simple. The public for the most does not know this profession exists. Go to a high school career event and ask for information regarding biomedical colleges or universities. I am fairly confident the counselors will look at you like a deer in the headlights!
In a few weeks, the AAMI sponsored future forum will gather again. Support this team of individuals and share your comments. The future of this profession will only continue to evolve. Its strength and reliance is increasing exponentially. Visibility is crucial to success. Mr. and Ms. HTM Professional. The train is leaving the station. Are you on board?