The VCS troops have departed for the Orlando theatre of engagement at HIMSS ‘11. We’re packed to the gills with ideas, optimism, not a few thcotchkes, and copious amounts of goodwill (like raising awareness to and funds for Central Florida’s Second Harvest Foodbankand celebrating Bill Childs for collecting his 50-in-50 “HIMSSY” Tuesday evening).

Leading up to that, here’s Bill’s next two issues that he anticipates will affect the HIT/HIS market during 2011.

5. Implementation and integration of new technology (including devices, procedures, and the cloud) demand Information Systems Support

Improved efficiency, new and better technology, remote access, more/better information, decision support, and inter-related security issues will command increased systems support.

6. Dealing with reduction in elective procedures and Medicare & Medicaid reimbursement

“So much to do; so little time, talent, budget, and understanding.” Everyone wants to cut the cost of healthcare and everyone has a plan that probably won’t work. Because of the moribund economy, healthcare providers have felt a bottom-line pinch because of reduced demand for elective procedures. In addition, random cuts in Medicare and Medicaid payments will result in less money for the healthcare providers and more to do. It doesn’t make sense to me!

Tomorrow, Bill expounds upon 2 more issues: Providing for the exploding needs of the physician community and the direct employment of many new physician groups; and Acquisitions of new provider organizations.

Bill is not the only VCS’er with wisdom to share; you can visit our Vital Knowledge Library , our knowledge archive, and our practice newsletters at this very website to read white papers and articles written by our consultants. Of course, you can always comment below.