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President's Message is a regular feature of Communiqué
From the November/December 2008 issue of Communiqué
Good tidings to you — and good things in store for 2009
It’s hard to believe, but here we are again with the holiday season upon us! It’s funny how, as kids, it seemed like it took an eternity for the holidays (and for those much-prized days off from school) to arrive, yet, as adults, it seems like just a few months pass before we’re digging out the boxes of decorations from the attic and hitting the stores to hunt for last-minute gifts. With virtually every year that passes, it becomes more clear just how fast time flies – regardless of whether we’re having fun in the process!
I am happy to say, though, that this past year has been both fun and invigorating for IAHCSMM, and members can expect even more great things from the Association in 2009.
While our nation is in the throes of one of the biggest, most important presidential elections of our time — and as our men and women in the military are still trying to instill peace and order in some of the most challenging parts of the world — IAHCSMM, too, will soon be setting the stage for its future leader through the selection of its next President-elect. I’d like to point out that, as noted in our bylaws, former ASHCSP members who meet IAHCSMM committee member requirements are invited and encouraged to submit their names for nomination. Once the nominees have been selected, all active and associate IAHCSMM members in good standing are encouraged to vote. Remember, the President-elect is an important figure whom helps establish the direction and vision of the Association — and whom is in line to lead IAHCSMM — so it’s important that your voice be heard.
Setting our sights on the Sunshine State
Although the 2009 Annual Meeting in Orlando is still months away, IAHCSMM planning is nonetheless in full-swing to ensure that attendees enjoy the very best educational conference the CSMM profession has to offer. IAHCSMM’s 50th Anniversary Meeting in Reno will be difficult to top, but I’m confident that the Orlando meeting will be every bit as successful and will bring our best attendance ever (in fact, at press time, exhibits were already nearly sold out for the meeting). IAHCSMM is pleased to announce that it has secured Betsy McCaughey, Ph.D., a renowned infection control expert, for the keynote address, and attendees will have access to the widest array of educational sessions and social events imaginable. Back by popular demand will be our Early Bird Discussion Groups and pre-conference educational opportunities that include hands-on labs, training workshops and instructor updates.
For more meeting details check out our website for the newly-posted preliminary program, and be sure to register soon to secure a low Early Bird registration rate (after Feb. 09, full registration rates will apply). As always, IAHCSMM has also secured room reservations at a discounted rate. The cut-off date for these reduced rate rooms at the world-class Wyndham Orlando Resort is April 8, while supplies last, so don’t wait. After that date, reservations will be accepted only on a space available and rate available basis.
Speaking of our website, I am pleased to announce that we will be unveiling a new-and-improved site for 2009. The website, which we hope to have up and running in January, will be even more comprehensive and member-centric, and will provide an easy to navigate, at-a-glance view of IAHCSMM member offerings, educational and employment opportunities, networking possibilities, and a host of other benefits for those in the CSMM field. Stay tuned for more details…
May the remainder of 2008 be memorable and bring each of you much peace, joy and good health. May it also bring you a much-deserved sense of pride and appreciation for all the ways you contribute to the delivery of quality patient care. Your dedication to quality and commitment to effective, safe practices in the Central Service department is the best gift any patient (or healthcare customer you serve) could ever ask for. IAHCSMM’s gift to you, its valued member, is to help you continue to reach your full potential through ongoing education, professional advancement and a hearty helping of member services. It truly is the gift that keeps on giving.
Happy Holidays to you and yours!
Richard W. Schule, MBA, BS, CST, CRCST, CHMMC, FCS
IAHCSMM President
