Medtrade is just weeks away, but there's still time to register for the nation's premiere HME trade show, scheduled for October 26–29 at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta.
Educational advisory board member Jim Greatorex, a business development consultant for VGM Retail, recently said: "I believe this Medtrade will be one of the most important industry gatherings of the last three years. Nowhere else can you be exposed to the new opportunities, and learn the new best practices to not just survive, but thrive. You cannot miss Medtrade Atlanta in October."
The friendlier format from Medtrade Spring earlier this year will also be in effect at Medtrade. The altered format is specifically designed to minimize overlap between Expo floor time and valuable educational sessions. With this in mind, it makes sense to arrive in Atlanta on Sunday, October 25, to take full advantage of a packed Monday (October 26), which features several educational choices.
Day one of Medtrade is all about options. Those who want in-depth understanding in a multi-hour setting can choose to attend any of three six-hour workshops, or one Fitter's Course (all scheduled for 10 a.m.–4 p.m., Monday, October 26.
Monday will also have a full slate of one-hour and/or 90-minute educational sessions on tap.
Day one of Medtrade will also feature the inaugural Brightree Summit—Tools of the Trade, a 1–6 p.m. array of educational tracks with several sessions and hands-on training from which to choose.
"It makes a lot of sense this year for attendees to get into Atlanta the day before the show officially starts to fully experience the packed day one," says Kevin Gaffney, group show director, Medtrade. "If you want to do a six-hour workshop on Monday, or if you prefer a varied series of shorter educational sessions, you will have several options on Monday."
Also on Monday, The Audit Happy Hour is the perfect end to a productive day. The Audit Happy Hour is new for Medtrade and is sponsored by ACU-Serve. Scheduled from 5:30–6:30 p.m., the gathering is designed to help attendees figure out how to navigate audits, while also having a little fun. You will have a chance to meet with experts at a relaxed networking reception. This is a unique Q&A and networking opportunity.
"Events such as our new Audit Happy Hour and HME Breakfast Club contribute to a full Medtrade experience," says Gaffney. "They are fun, informative, and include valuable peer-to-peer interactions that I call the 'secret sauce' of any trade show."
- The Expo Hall will be open 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Tuesday, October 27, and Wednesday, October 28.
- On Tuesday, educational sessions will take place 2:45–3:45 p.m. and 4–5 p.m.
- On Wednesday, educational sessions will take place throughout the day.
- On Thursday there will be no educational sessions, but the show floor will be open 10 a.m.–1 p.m.
New attendees are invited to Medtrade's First-Time Attendee Orientation. Grab a cup of coffee and hear tips from Medtrade veterans that will help make your first Medtrade a success. Learn how to get the most out of your expo floor and/or conference experience.
For information on all of the events described in this article, visit medtrade.com.
Additional Information/Networking Events
First-Time Attendee Orientation
October 27 • 7:30–8 a.m.
Brightree Summit: Tools of the Trade
October 26 • 1–6 p.m.
Join Brightree experts and your peers on Monday, October 26, for nearly a dozen educational sessions, as well as roundtable discussions, ask-the-expert sessions, hands-on training, and a cocktail reception. Registration also includes complimentary access to the Brightree Party at the Tabernacle Wednesday evening (10/28).
AAHomecare's Stand Up for Homecare Fundraiser Reception
October 27 • 5:30–7 p.m.
Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce
The Stand Up for Homecare reception is the premiere networking event for the HME community, and raises funds that help build mutually supportive relationships with HME consumer/patient groups, as well as enabling outreach and educational efforts aimed at policy makers and the media. Groups supported by SUFH funds include: the National Council on Independent Living; Paralyzed Veterans of America; United Spinal Association; and the American Association of People with Disabilities. These funds have also supported the development of the Save My Medical Supplies program, which has recruited thousands of individuals to help promote HME advocacy priorities.
AAHomecare's Washington Update
October 27 • 8–9:45 a.m.
As the largest national association representing the HME industry, AAHomecare is on the front lines in Washington, D.C. fighting for its members. This is your chance to get the insider's perspective on what is happening now, and what is up next on Capitol Hill. AAHomecare speakers will include: Tom Ryan, president; Jay Witter, senior vice president of Public Policy; Kim Brummett, vice president of Regulatory Affairs; and Beth Ludwick, senior director of Communications.
Innovative HME Retail Product Awards
Sponsored by HomeCare
October 27 • 9–10 a.m.
The biannual Innovative HME Retail Product Awards honor HME products that are particularly suited for retail sale. The purpose of the competition is to promote and recognize products that contribute to providers' bottom lines though cash sales. Products will be judged on marketing support provided to suppliers, innovation, functionality, quality/durability, aesthetics/style, environmental sustainability, ease of retail set-up, and pricing.
Power Lunch
Sponsored by VGM
October 28 • 11:45 a.m.–1:15 p.m.
Real food for thought! Fuel up on lunch and information on one of eight topics crucial to making your business survive and thrive. Grab your included boxed lunch and head to your pre-selected table where the moderator will kick-off your roundtable group discussion. Learn from experts, hear from your peers, and take back solutions to your office. Tickets are available through registration and you will have your choice of the following topics: Audits, Data Collection/Strategy, Home Accessibility, Leadership, Retail, or Social Media/Web Marketing.
Moderator: Mary Ellen Conway, Capital Healthcare Group
HME Breakfast Club—New for Medtrade
October 29 • 9–10:30 a.m.
The HME Breakfast Club is a great way to start your day, get inspired, and meet other like-minded HME professionals—the HBC is the perfect opportunity for those who are eager to tackle the changing HME landscape with a positive attitude and collaborative spirit. Your ticket includes breakfast, time to chat with other like-minded HME professionals, and keynote speaker Mandy Chia, who will share her unique perspective on "Romancing Your Customers."
