WMU conference examines intersection of information technology and health care

Contact: Stacey Anderson
October 9, 2019

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Health information professionals, medical professionals, educators and government leaders will gather to address "Transitioning to Smart Care: Challenges, Strategies and Solutions" during the International Conference on Health Information Technology Advancement, Thursday and Friday, Oct. 31-Nov. 1, at Western Michigan University's Fetzer Center.

Hosted by the WMU Department of Business Information Systems at the Haworth College of Business, the conference includes several industry leaders who will present on topics ranging from privacy and security concerns in health information technology, to artificial intelligence, to health care accessibility, to changing business models in health care. Speakers include:

  • Theresa Beckie, associate dean and professor, colleges of nursing and medicine, University of South Florida
  • Doug Dietzman, chief executive officer, Great Lakes Health Connect
  • Dr. Ash Goel, senior vice president and chief information officer, Bronson Healthcare Group
  • Jason Joseph, senior vice president and chief information officer, Spectrum Health
  • Rebecca Laborde, global lead product strategist for healthcare and precision medicine, Oracle Healthcare
  • Larry Yob, senior director of information security, Ascension Technologies

Dr. Joseph Tan, professor, McMaster University, will give a special presentation about "Tomorrow's Strategic and Digital Transformative Thinkers: Toward a Digital Global Health IT Ecosystem."

In addition, there will be sessions on health analytics best practices, future directions for the industry, and resolving smart care challenges, as well as health care and medical research presentations, from academics and students. A moderated panel presentation titled “"Smart Care—Issues and Directions" will bring together key leaders for a lively discussion.

Networking opportunities are available throughout the conference for professionals to connect with each other and for employers to meet talented students.

For more information or to register, visit the conference website or call the conference hotline (269) 387-5411. The deadline for registration is Friday, Oct. 25.

For more WMU news, arts and events, visit WMU News online.