By John Garrett
Having attended the Imaging Conference and Expo (ICE) the last two years, I feel compelled to review this year’s conference. The 2015 conference was well worth the trip and the reason for my attendance and participation in the 2016 conference. However, the 2016 ICE was on a completely different level. It struck me that ICE has hit its stride. What really made this year different was the addition of a few key events. Having a keynote speaker, ICE18 Leadership Summit,* and the industry panel discussion made a good event into a great event.
I was given the opportunity to present this year. That was a great experience. Participating in ICE18 Leadership Summit, however, had a much bigger impact. The ICE18 was a group of industry professionals that included a radiologist, imaging directors, biomedical imaging specialists, and a mix of various others. Everyone in the room was an imaging department stakeholder. There were four presentations that were more guided discussions that allowed everyone to participate. These allowed interaction from various viewpoints on the subjects presented. The discussions were lively and fairly intense as each individual contributed concerns, questions, and ideas for improvement. It was by far one of the most productive and interesting events I have taken part of as an imaging professional.
The industry panel discussion, which focused on moving from OEM contracts to third party service, was eye opening. The panelists were wonderful, and I cannot thank them enough for their participation. They gave a look at service from the viewpoint of the users and department management. There was a great deal of audience participation. Again it allowed for a dialog that involved a wide variety of people from the across the industry. The kind of dialog so many in the industry desire and could benefit from.
With 20 years of experience in the imaging field, I have to say that this year the ICE conference was the refreshing experience that the industry needs. The two days are intense and focused. There is a lot of information to absorb, great idea exchange, and a chance to run into old industry friends you haven’t seen in a while. The only way I can really explain how great the experience was is to say that I know where I will be July 24-25, 2017. I will be in Washington, D.C. at the Imaging Conference and Expo.
* The ICE 18 Leadership Summit is an elite group of 18+ thought leaders from the Imaging Community (Radiology Directors, Imaging Service Directors, Imaging Technologists, etc.) from the country’s most prestigious hospitals, imaging centers and health systems. These 18 plus will gather for the “ICE Talks” where you can learn and share innovative and creative ideas to help you personally and professionally. If you are interested in participating in the ICE 18 for 2017, email info@attendice.com
Editor’s Note: We received this letter shortly after returning from ICE 2016. The Imaging Conference and Expo (ICE) is dedicated to Imaging Directors & Imaging Service Professionals, including Technologists and Directors of Imaging Services. ICE offers continuing education, networking opportunities and an exhibit hall filled with the industry’s leading companies.