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Hot Lessons, Hot Topics, and Hot Chicken at SHSMD 2019

September 19, 2019

In early September, a trio of PRC teammates hopped on a plane bound for Nashville, Tennessee to attend the Society for Health Care Strategy & Market Development (SHSMD) Conference. While in attendance, PRC presented a pre-conference workshop, connected with attendees during the exhibit hours, and ventured out for some local cuisine.

Embracing Excellence

To kick off the conference, Keith Schneider, Director of Consumer & Engagement Studies at PRC, and Cathy Lee, Corporate VP of Patient Experience at McLeod Health, presented an interactive two- and half-hour workshop focusing on embracing excellence throughout each step of the patient’s journey and creating a great product before promotion. During the workshop, paid attendees learned the value of a positive relationship between marketing departments and other internal teams. A digital demonstration called “The Tower of Power” allowed the audience to repeatedly tap their mobile devices or tablets which represented the effort a workday entails. But when everyone worked together across different departments, the power bar filled with ease and showcased the importance of collaboration.

The speaking duo also interviewed with DoctorPodcasting by RadioMD for the SHSMD podcast, sharing their innovative strategic thinking when it comes to brand reputation. PRC will provide a link to the SHSMD podcast episode on Twitter, @PRCExcellence, as soon as it’s available!

Studying at SHSMD

Following the lead of 6-year exhibitor, Keith Schneider, the PRC team attended keynote speakers and concurrent sessions. An early morning presentation, “America Then & Now” by Jon Meacham, started day two with an attitude for change. Meacham is a known contributor to TIME and The New York Times Book Review. He is a commentator, regularly appearing on CNN or MSNBC and the energy during his session was palpable, despite the early hour. During his breakfast session, Meacham reflected upon his close relationship with the Bush family and how history appears to be repeating itself by individuals being “reactive than reflective.” He also offered three key takeaways on how to be an effective leader:

  1. Be curious
  2. Accept Humility
  3. Show Empathy

Other valuable sessions attended by the PRC team were “Harness the Power of Joy and Celebrate Your Purpose,” “Engaging Millennials in Their Health Care,” “A Tale of Two Health System Rebrands,” and “Opportunity in the Opioid Crisis,” which brought awareness to causes like the 525 Foundation or #SpeakUpForBen.

Exceptional Experience

SHSMD did a great job of helping attendees stay organized and attend relatable sessions through a smartphone conference app. The app consisted of daily schedules, the ability to post and connect with other attendees, and offered digital surveys of each section courtesy of PRC. Making connections online was simple, but the opportunity to meet industry professionals during exhibit hall hours were rewarding.

Similar to a business on Broadway in Nashville, crowds of attendees bopped by the booth to grab a set of headphones promoting our podcast, Mondays With Mel. Conversations filled the aisle while professionals spoke with us about best practices and vulnerable processes within their organization. If you weren’t able to attend SHSMD but have questions about our best practices, reach out to Keith Schneider to prance down the path to excellence in your organization.

Last, but certainly not least in our SHSMD reflection was the location. Nashville, Tennessee offered a perfect blend of professionalism and play. When the conference offered room to explore, the team tasted hot chicken, collard greens, and the southern classic shrimp and grits. The challenge of differing taste buds brought the team together and showed that excellence is all about the experience.

We encourage you to join our conference trail by following us on Twitter or by reaching out to PRC to gain further insights about your community health or consumer and brand needs. Hope to see you at SHSMD 2020!