This month, I want to reflect on a powerful theme—belonging. Yes, people belong to fitness clubs, alumni associations, and maybe even places of worship. But the sense of belonging that permeates VHMA is so distinct that it becomes a pivotal part of our careers, the success of our practices, and, quite honestly, our lives. VHMA members are "a people," "a peoplehood," or, in the spirit of the Easter basket season, "my peeps."
Don't know what that exactly means? Read on…
We are people who celebrate and thrive together.
Over the past few months, I've had countless opportunities to connect with VHMA members in person and even more online as we've come together to celebrate achievements and share life's joys. These moments genuinely highlight the community we've built.
Christine Shupe (our Executive Director) and I presented for a group in Australia earlier this month. We were asked to discuss the importance of VHMA and how it supports managers in advancing their careers. The questions that followed the presentation made it incredibly clear that what we have within VHMA is truly special. While they are just beginning to build on what we've already established, it was evident that with the support of others, managers can not only be successful but truly thrive.
Reflecting on this, I thought about the Management Exchange in Nashville just a few weeks ago. It was sold out, with a waiting list, and I had the chance to meet new faces and reconnect with old friends. However, what stood out were the social media posts from the conference. Seeing so many managers having fun, learning, and using new tools like AI for the first time was inspiring. The networking and sharing of knowledge were incredible.
We are people who learn together and from each other.
Continuing education has so much value, but what truly sets VHMA apart is the community we've created through learning together. The sense of belonging that comes from being part of something larger—where we can share our experiences and insights—is at the heart of VHMA. Many of us have attended other conferences, but there's something uniquely fulfilling about knowing you have a group of managers who truly understand your world, can relate to your challenges, and are ready to share the wisdom you've been searching for.
Whether you attended the Management Exchange or participated in one of our webinars, where we greet each other from across the country, you are a part of this community. Even if your schedule only allows a quick check-in on the Open Forum, I am always amazed by how many members mention that they start their mornings there, seeking insight into what others are facing in their hospitals. It's a tangible reminder that we're all in this together.
Over the years, my participation in VHMA has always energized me. I get a boost from talking to other managers dealing with the same challenges: staffing issues, hiring that critical doctor, or budgeting without the needed resources. It's reassuring to know I have a strong network of incredible managers who are always ready to offer support and advice.
We are people who have each other's backs.
I've realized that how I feel about VHMA isn't unique. I hear it constantly from others—"These are my people." It's a phrase that encapsulates what VHMA truly is: a supportive network where we can turn to each other for guidance. This sense of belonging is evident in roundtable discussions, Open Forum posts, and even when I visit with our sponsors, who consistently tell me how much they enjoy being part of our community.
I encourage you to fully embrace the benefits of being a VHMA member. One of the most invaluable aspects may not always be a tangible offering, but knowing you're not alone. When you face a problem or stress managing your hospital, someone in our community is probably experiencing something similar. And more importantly, they're ready to support you.
As you renew your membership for 2025 (if you have not already), consider how VHMA can make your life simpler, easier, or more supportive. VHMA membership isn't just about the year-to-year benefits—it's about the long-term relationships and networks you build that will serve you for years.
In closing, I want to emphasize the comfort of knowing that my network of friends and fellow managers is there for me. Whether through the online MemberConnect community or at our Annual Conference in New Orleans this September, I know you'll find your group of "people" who will be there for you in your challenges and triumphs.
Your membership is what you make of it, and I encourage you to take full advantage of everything VHMA offers.
Your Buddy,
Scott Zimmerman, BFA, CVPM
VHMA President
#PracticePulse