Medicaid Health Plans of America Conference Recap

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In the bustling heart of the nation’s capital, amid the grandeur of the Gaylord Hotel, HCD International, a beacon of health equity consulting, joined the leagues of dedicated healthcare professionals at the 2023 Medicaid Health Plans of America conference. With the theme, “Leading Medicaid Forward,” this gathering of healthcare minds from across the nation had 4 focal areas: equity, managed long term service and supports, social determinants of health, and policy. This conference is so important because conversation, educational sessions, networking, professional development and policy influence. As I reflect on the events that unfolded, three verses from the Bible come to mind, that guided me along my journey during the conference.

Genesis 28:15 I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go.

At the MHPA Conference, unforeseen challenges tested our resolve. One such challenge was unforeseen circumstances of a panel speaker no longer being available to join the panel we sponsored. In this moment, I couldn’t help but think of Genesis 28:15. God’s promise to Jacob reminds us that we are not alone, even in the most unexpected and challenging circumstances.  As I receiving this news, my team was already adding a ribbon etched “speaker” on my conference badge. Though chaotic in this moment and just for a moment, my team did not ask me what to do or how to solve this issue, in the 2 minutes they had, they knew what was required, knew that they could count on me to deliver, and they positioned me as best as they could, to win. I was not frazzled, I simply drew from the wealth of information and resources that I naturally with me daily.  As a leader it is moments like these that allow me to lucidly reflect on the faith my team has in me. this is worth more than diamonds and more than rubies.

Romans 8:28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him.

With no time to spare, I had to step in as a last-minute speaker. Visually, I was smiling and verbally, I was giving an earnest attempt at being comic relief but technical difficulties further  plagued the panel, causing stress and frustration, not to mentioned being one of the final breakout sessions of the entire conference. However, Romans 8:28 reminds me that even in the face of adversity, there’s a purpose. Perhaps this trial was meant to showcase our adaptability and resilience as a team. Perhaps this was supposed to be a demonstration to my team amongst themselves that they can rely on me and a lesson to me, that my team didn’t even think twice about whether I was able, they trusted me. Through the technical glitches and last-minute changes, we persevered, delivered valuable insights, and got excellent feedback from several attendees.

1 Samuel 16:7 – Don’t Judge a Book by Its Cover.

During one of the networking sessions, an encounter with a panelist highlighted the ongoing challenge of assumptions and stereotypes. I approached this individual, not to discuss diversity work, but to connect on a broader healthcare perspective. In these moments, Hebrews 13:5-6 rang true, reminding us that we should not be disheartened by misjudgment. Instead, we must continue to build bridges and promote understanding.

Through the ups and downs of the MHPA Conference, one constant remained – the unwavering support of our HCD International team. Just as the Lord promises to never leave us, our team stood by, managing our booth with grace and forging valuable connections throughout the event.

In retrospect, the MHPA Conference was a testament to the unexpected twists and turns of life’s journey. We faced challenges, broke down stereotypes, and adapted to unforeseen circumstances, all while maintaining our faith in the path laid out before us. Just as these verses from the Bible guided me through this conference, they will continue to inspire me in my ongoing mission for health equity.

To God be the glory, and to members be the health equity.

2023 IAMHP Annual Conference: Stronger Together Recap

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Central Illinois was truly a delightful experience and it is one of the reasons attending the 2023 Illinois Association of Medicaid Health Plans (IAMHP) Stronger Together Conference, was a blessing for me.

During the whirlwind of our brief, action-packed stay that lasted less than 72 hours, I found solace and inspiration in the words of Matthew 5:41, “If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles.” The Bible tells us of going above and beyond, and during the conference, this principle resonated deeply.

As I presented on the panel alongside a dedicated member of the HCD International team who leads the Data division and our cherished client, I couldn’t help but notice the audience’s reactions. Many appeared flabbergasted by our success, but the truth is, it’s not magic; it’s a commitment to listening to the needs of the members and delivering customized solutions. This reminds me of another verse from the Bible, Proverbs 15:22, which says, “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers, they succeed.”

We succeeded not because we had all the answers but because we actively sought counsel, listened to the members’ concerns, and collaborated to bridge the gaps in health care. This proactive approach reflects the wisdom in seeking advice and the power of teamwork. To be frank, I was overjoyed that my team was being sought out for their expertise and I was relieved that someone else got to see how hardworking they are… but it caused me to wonder why such a disconnect on providing implementable solutions that put policy into practice, exists.

During the IAMHP Conference, several attendees approached me with words of praise and admiration. They recognized my passion for our mission, my unwavering commitment to the members, and our relentless pursuit of closing important healthcare gaps in care. In these moments, I was reminded of 1 Corinthians 12:4-6, which speaks of different gifts but the same Spirit, different kinds of service, but the same Lord. Our diverse talents and our shared dedication were celebrated, reinforcing the notion that together we can achieve remarkable results.

Moreover, I was lauded for my intuitive leadership style, driving my team to think outside the box and foster innovation. This highlights the relevance of Proverbs 16:3, “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.” By dedicating ourselves to this noble cause, we were able to inspire innovation and foster a spirit of continuous improvement.

What a pleasant reminder that our faith is rewarded. What a pleasant reminder that going the extra mile, seeking counsel, and embracing diverse gifts and talents can lead to impactful change in healthcare and beyond.