AHIMA25 Conference

Tuesday, Oct 14 | 1:10 PM – 2:00 PM CDT

As demand for patient information grows, HIM leaders are modernizing release of information (ROI) operations to manage volume, ensure compliance, and improve efficiency. This session highlights how organizations are using automation, centralized processes, and FHIR (Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources) to streamline ROI, reduce turnaround times, and support staff. Attendees will gain best practices for implementing executive dashboards, staff training, and payer-specific workflows. The session will also explore how advanced data insights from automation can inform payer contract negotiations, executive reporting, and return on investment analysis.

Speakers: 
Angela Rose, VP, Client Success, MRO

Cassie Cox, Director, Health Information Management, Release of Information, SSM Health

Sabrena Grerich, Director of Corporate Health Information Management, Yale New Haven Health System

Emilie Sturm, Senior Revenue Management Consultant, Trinity Health

Tuesday, Oct 14 | 2:15 PM – 3:05 PM CDT

Legislative changes at both federal and state levels have significantly impacted requirements for HIM professionals. This session offers a detailed update on how these laws affect HIM and ROI practices and provides strategies for effective advocacy. Experts from MNHIMA, GHIMA, and government affairs will share insights into the policymaking process and engagement tactics. Real-world examples will show how providers are influencing legislation. Attendees will also receive a practical guide for grassroots advocacy, coalition building, and stakeholder alignment.

Speakers: 

Adrienne Morrell, VP, Government Affairs, MRO

Susan Nathe, Executive Director, MNHIMA/GHIMA

Geri Newman, President-Elect, Florida HIMA

10:00 AM CDT – Monday, Oct 13

Meet the experts shaping the HI field! Join AHIMA Fellows for candid, inspiring conversations about career journeys, lessons learned, and professional growth. Build meaningful connections and get real advice to fuel your future in the health information profession.

Moderators:

• Sandra Rockson, RHIA, CSM, CCMP, Co-Chair, Emerging Professionals Advisory Council – Operations Manager, UnitedHealth Group
• Kimberly McGhee, RHIT, CRCR, Co-Chair, Emerging Professionals Advisory Council -Health Information Manager of Centralized Release of Information, UnityPoint Health

AHIMA Fellows:

• Angela Rose, MHA, RHIA, CHPS, FAHIMA – Vice President of Client Success, MRO
• Dr. Marcia Sharp, EdD, RHIA, FAHIMA – Associate Professor, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Department of Diagnostic and Health Sciences
• Teresa Smithrud, MJ, MA, RHIA, CHPS, FAHIMA – Senior Director, System HIM, Clinical Research, and Privacy Officer, Mercyhealth
• Cindy Spann, MIS, RHIA, CHPS, CDIP, CCS, CCS-P, FAHIMA – Executive Director, Health Information Management, Community Health Network
• Dr. Aerian Tatum, MS, RHIA, CCS, CPHIMS, FAHIMA – Assistant Professor, Health Information Management, Coppin State University, and CEO, H.I.M. Education Consultants