Minnesota Brought It All Together!

Sally Trnka, Senior Program Coordinator

On Monday and Tuesday this week, over 475 rural health care leaders came together in beautiful, and recovering, Duluth, Minnesota to discuss a host of issues facing rural health care.  The energy at the Conference was electric; with old and new friends sharing in each other’s successes, exchanging best practices, networking and learning about what is coming down the pike. 

From the perspective of a Duluth resident, the event was perfectly timed.  As the city dries out and rebuilds, it was wonderful to have so many fellow Minnesota residents filling the hotels, restaurants and shops in our beautiful city.  The support that our staff received from all participants was overwhelming, and we thank all of those who attended the event. 

From the perspective of a conference planner, the event was perfect—record breaking numbers, a full hall of exhibitors whose companies work every day to support rural facilities, exceptional speakers and panelists, and happy participants.  While the event was a success, we received excellent feedback from participants and look forward to making the 2013 Conference (occurring June 24-25, 2013 in Duluth) the best one ever!

From the perspective of a health care consumer and rural health care advocate, the event was inspirational.  I was amazed by the innovative work that is happening in Minnesota.  Session topics spanned the gamut from providing hospice and palliative care to rural Veterans, to Stage 2 of meaningful use (MU), to CEO and CFO roundtables, to highlighting the exciting work happening with the Beacon Program in southeast Minnesota. 

Awards were presented to both an outstanding Rural Health Hero and Rural Health Team for the impactful work that they do, that will long serve as a legacy for the countless hours of hard work they have put into rural Minnesota and its healthcare.  Minnesota truly is a leader in health care innovation, and I left the Conference reinvigorated and infused with passion to take on what lies ahead.  Thank you to my colleagues, all of whom I so deeply admire, for sharing your stories and energy with all of us!