Chair File: America's Hospitals Gather at AHA Annual Meeting

This weekend kicks off a not-to-be-missed event for hospital and health system leaders: the AHA's 2017 Annual Membership Meeting. Beginning May 7, AHA members will gather in Washington, DC, to network with colleagues, discover the latest developments in the field, and meet influential political and policy decision-makers.

We'll also unite around the AHA's recent advocacy efforts with federal policymakers. State delegations will make visits to Capitol Hill, and we'll discuss the latest developments in health care policy and what members can do to make sure the needs and views of America's hospitals and health systems get their due attention.

The House of Representatives could vote on legislation to repeal and replace parts of the Affordable Care Act as early as this week, just days before our meeting begins—proving that now is a critical time to stay actively engaged. You won't want to miss our discussions on this topic.

I have been so proud in recent weeks to see our field stand up for the needs of our patients and our communities as health care policy has been at the top of the federal agenda. Hospital workers are dedicated, and hospital workers are committed.

It's an honor to serve as AHA chairman. But we can't lead America's hospitals forward without you. So I hope I'll see you at the 2017 Annual Membership Meeting. If you haven't already registered, please visit www.aha.org and sign up today. It's the best way to meet the health care leaders who are shaping the future of our field.

Gene Woods, AHA 2017 Board Chair