HIMSS Merges With Disruptive Women in Health Care Community

November 3, 2017 — The Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS) recently welcomed the organization Disruptive Women in Health Care to its ranks, building on HIMSS’ successful Women in Health IT (information technology) initiative.

“The HIMSS Women in Health IT and Disruptive Women in Health Care efforts come together for optimal strategic impact,” said Carla Smith, MA, FHIMSS, CNM, executive vice president, HIMSS. Smith explained that with a combined effort, “we will be better positioned to equip professionals with education, mentoring, community, and leadership they need to make smart career and hiring decisions. Then, through a diverse, highly competent work force, we can achieve better health through the best use of information and technology.”

Launched in 2009, Disruptive Women in Health Care “serves as a platform for provocative ideas, thoughts, and solutions in the health sphere,” according to the organization. The community regularly hosts forums, book discussions, and receptions on timely and often controversial health policy topics to bring together prominent players with different opinions and ideologies.

In February 2016, HIMSS introduced its Women in Health IT initiative. The initiative focuses on building an increasingly diverse and equitable workforce. For example, HIMSS reviewed more than a decade of research on health IT compensation for both men and women with the HIMSS Longitudinal Gender Compensation Assessment. The data indicated that the salary gap between men and women in health IT had widened in the past decade. HIMSS has introduced numerous educational and networking opportunities on and for women in health IT, including a Community and the Most Influential Women in Health IT Awards.

Disruptive Women in Health Care founder Robin Strongin announced the merging of these influential and dedicated efforts in a recent blog post. “I’m delighted to announce that the highly-respected Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS) is acquiring the rights to Disruptive Women. With their commitment, reach and impressive infrastructure, I am excited to see how they will take our work to the next level,” she said.

HIMSS has multiple resources available for women in health IT or anyone interested in learning more about the community and related activities.

For more information: www.himss.org