We’d been looking forward to HIMSS for months, and we were not disappointed when we stepped onto the exhibit hall floor. We felt the energy, the innovation, and yes, the sheer scale of it all could be overwhelming. From setting up our booth to meeting industry leaders face-to-face, we were thrilled to be part of the conversation shaping the future of healthcare IT.
HIMSS isn’t just a conference—it’s an endurance event. And while we came prepared, nothing could quite capture the excitement (and let’s be honest, the exhaustion) of being fully immersed in the action. As we reflect on an incredible week of connections, insights and non-stop conversations, here are our six biggest takeaways from our first year at HIMSS.
1. AI is Everywhere—But Its Role is Still Evolving
If there was one dominant theme at HIMSS, it was AI. Nearly every booth and presentation had some form of AI-powered technology weaved in, promising better efficiency, smarter decision-making and improved patient outcomes. But in our conversations, a common question kept coming up: Is AI truly making a difference yet, or is it just a shiny object? The companies that made the biggest impact weren’t just talking about AI, they were showing real-world applications that enhanced human interactions rather than replacing them. The industry is still figuring out how to balance AI’s potential with its practical, day-to-day impact, and that debate is far from settled.
2. HIMSS is an Endurance Event—Physically and Mentally
We knew HIMSS was a massive event, but nothing quite prepared us for the sheer physical and mental stamina required to exhibit. From early morning booth setup to late-night networking, the week was a nonstop marathon of conversations, demos, and walking miles across the exhibit hall.
Comfortable shoes (we’re partial to our DH Nikes) were a must, and so was strategic planning—staying hydrated, pacing ourselves and making the most of every interaction. By the end of the week, we were exhausted but also energized by the connections we made. If there’s one piece of advice we’d give to exhibitors: you’re not running this marathon alone - we're all exhausted.
3. Face-to-Face Connections Still Matter—Now More Than Ever
In an industry increasingly driven by digital transformation, one of the biggest takeaways from HIMSS was the irreplaceable value of in-person connections. Virtual meetings and emails are great, but nothing beats sitting across from someone, shaking hands, and having a real conversation. Some of our most insightful discussions didn’t happen in scheduled meetings but in passing—grabbing coffee, running into someone in the exhibit hall or chatting between sessions. These spontaneous moments of connection reminded us that, despite all the advances in healthcare technology, relationships remain at the heart of healthcare. Talking to clients and future clients reminds us why we do what we do – it’s not just about software and systems; it’s about trust, collaboration and shared goals. And perhaps a little team roulette.
4. Cutting Through the Noise is a Competitive Advantage
As exhibitors without a giant booth, we quickly realized that getting noticed at HIMSS takes more than just a great product; it takes a crystal-clear message. With hundreds of vendors competing for attention, flashy displays and high-tech demos were everywhere. But the booths that kept people’s attention weren’t necessarily the biggest or the most high-tech; they were the ones that communicated their value in a way that was simple, direct and easy to understand.
We saw firsthand how companies that focused on real-world solutions—rather than just buzzwords—stood out the most. Terms like "interoperability" and "AI-driven insights" were everywhere, but the exhibitors that made a lasting impression were the ones who could explain, in plain language, exactly how they solve problems for healthcare organizations. In a space overflowing with innovation, clarity wasn’t just helpful, it was a competitive advantage.
5. Simplicity is More Powerful Than Complexity
While AI and automation took center stage, one of our biggest takeaways was the power of simplicity. Healthcare IT can be incredibly complex, but the solutions that stood out most were the ones that made things easier, not harder. At Dialog Health, we believe in the power of simple, effective communication—because when it comes to patient engagement, text messaging is personal, convenient and already a natural part of people’s daily lives and better conversations throughout the patient journey lead to more meaningful relationships between provider and patient. Many attendees at our booth echoed this sentiment, saying they were tired of overcomplicated technology that adds to their workload instead of reducing it. Sometimes, the most powerful innovations are the ones that strip away complexity and get back to the basics: making meaningful connections easier.
6. The Future of Healthcare IT is Uncertain—But Exciting
While AI and automation certainly stole the spotlight at HIMSS, one of our biggest takeaways was the undeniable power of simplicity. Healthcare IT can quickly become overwhelming, but the solutions that truly stood out were the ones that made things easier, not more complicated. As exhibitors, we saw firsthand how attendees were drawn to solutions that focused on simplicity and effectiveness. At Dialog Health, we firmly believe in the power of straightforward, effective communication—because when it comes to patient engagement, text messaging is personal, convenient, and already integrated into people’s daily routines.
HIMSS proved to be more than just a conference, it was a masterclass in endurance, innovation, and the power of human connection. From the overwhelming presence of AI to the reminder that simplicity often wins in a world full of complexity, this year’s event reinforced key lessons about where healthcare IT is headed. While the industry continues to evolve at a rapid pace, one thing remains unchanged: the best solutions are the ones that truly serve the people behind the technology—patients, providers, and healthcare teams alike. As we take what we’ve learned back to our own work, we’re energized by the possibilities ahead and grateful for the conversations, insights and partnerships that made HIMSS an unforgettable experience.
