Reflecting on Focus at Heartland Conference 2024: A Vision for Post-Acute Homecare

Published in Women's Health on June 27, 2024

On June 10-12, 2024, nearly 900 members, vendor partners, and speakers made the journey to VGM and Essentially Women’s headquarters in Waterloo, Iowa, for the Focus at Heartland Conference. Best known for its unforgettable approach to learning and networking, this conference offered attendees an unbeatable experience of learning, networking, and connection.

Educational Sessions

This year’s Focus at Heartland Conference featured over 60 sessions covering diverse topics such as women’s health, marketing, compliance, leadership, billing and reimbursement, and regulatory matters. Attendees had the opportunity to learn from industry experts and earn up to 15.25 contact hours/CEUs throughout the event.

Education

Networking and Fun

In keeping with its popular social events, Focus at Heartland featured numerous opportunities for networking and fun. Monday, June 10, kicked off with numerous activities such as the Van G. Miller Golf Tournament, a factory tour of the John Deere Assembly Plant, yoga at Three Pines Farm, an escape to Greenbelt Lake, a women’s health meet-up, and a social meet-up for first-time attendees at a local brewery. The day concluded with a Party on the Plaza filled with fun, networking, good food, drinks, and music.

Yoga Kayak Yoga Party on the Plaza

Tuesday, June 11, kicked off the exhibit hall grand opening with VGM and Essentially Women’s vendor partner industry-leading products, software solutions, and conference promotions. This was followed by a return to the Lost Island Amusement Park for Connections and Coasters and fireworks.

Fireworks

On the final day of the conference, exhibitors and attendees could participate in a new Partner Connections speed-networking event to establish new connections, explore potential collaborations, and exchange valuable insights with manufacturers and service partners. Finally, attendees gathered at the VGM Farm for a Dancing Through the Decades farewell event.

Dancing Through the Decades

Leadership Insights

The inaugural session explored the evolving landscape of the post-acute homecare industry. Attendees met the new leadership team, gained their perspectives, and discussed strategies for adapting to upcoming changes in the field.

“Heartland Conference is more than just an event; it is a convergence of ideas, experiences, and visions for the future,” states Lindy Tentinger, President, VGM & Associates. “The conference is a testament to our commitment to excellence and innovation in home medical equipment services and the post-acute homecare space, and this year I hope attendees learned how we will chart a course towards a future where our industry does not just adapt but leads the way in providing exceptional care together.”

Thank you to all attendees, vendor partners, speakers, and presenters who made this conference a success!