Message from the CEO
SCCM’s 37th Congress Notes Record Attendance
David Julian Martin, CAE
CEO/Executive Vice-President
Society of Critical Care Medicine
The Society of Critical Care Medicine’s (SCCM) 37th Critical Care Congress concluded on Wednesday, February 6, 2008, with record high attendance for professionals and overall attendees at nearly 6,000 – an 11% increase from last year. With four days of high-level programming, award ceremonies, keynote addresses, social engagements, special events, and tour opportunities, the 37th Critical Care Congress was the perfect blend of learning and leisure. This was the first time SCCM’s annual Congress was held in Hawaii, which undoubtedly contributed to its success, making it memorable for all in attendance.
On Sunday, February 3, the Society welcomed Philip S. Barie, MD, MBA, FCCM, as its 2008 president. Speaking to a full room and attentive audience, Barie delivered his inaugural address, Thoughts on Preparation: Thinking about the Unthinkable, which reinforced the importance of proper preparation and effective communication. Several other educational sessions focused on how to achieve a healthy work and life balance. I hope that all attendees returned home not only with a feeling of tranquility, but also with eagerness to implement their newly acquired knowledge in daily practice.
The 37th Critical Care Congress was one of milestones and memories, and SCCM is building on this momentum with plans for a compelling 38th Critical Care Congress that will focus on members and their dedication to improving patient care. This inspiring event will take place in the historic and majestic landscape of the Smoky Mountains in Nashville, Tennessee, USA.
I AM SCCM: Recognizing Members’ Dedication to Patient Care
Throughout 2008 and beyond, the Society will be recognizing its members and their dedication to improving patient-centered care with the I AM SCCM campaign. To make this a rewarding and inspiring experience, SCCM needs your patient care stories! By recognizing and sharing our accomplishments with one another, we will create a catalyst to stimulate thought and to broaden horizons. I AM SCCM exemplifies your dedication so that others may become inspired.
As you read this column, you may be wondering, “what story do I have to share?” Think back to the one instance when it all came together – performing a procedure, applying new knowledge, working as a team, or saving a life. What feelings are evoked and can others learn from your story?
There is no better way to capture the essence of the intensive care environment than to have our members share their patient care stories with one another. Storytelling has been an effective method of communication for as long as humans have existed. Documenting stories became a form of knowledge sharing used to capture and relay one’s experience for the benefit of others. Stories disseminate the tacit knowledge of experts that conversation cannot reveal.
Stories can empower readers to think outside the box and can be used to motivate and inspire them. I AM SCCM seeks to unite all members of the multiprofessional team. It transcends clinical roles and speaks to the driving force that keeps each and every one of you dedicated to treating and managing critically ill and injured patients. I AM SCCM represents specialized skills, advanced knowledge, and seasoned experience. It also reminds us that even the simplest acts, perhaps performed by a novice in the field, can have profound effects. I AM SCCM is a celebration of you - the SCCM member - and your continued dedication to ensuring excellence and consistency in the practice of critical care.
The culminated efforts of I AM SCCM will be showcased daily from January 31 to February 4, 2009, during SCCM’s 38th Critical Care Congress in Nashville, Tennessee, USA. The member who submits the story that best embodies I AM SCCM will win free tuition to the 38th Critical Care Congress, and that story will be published in the December 2008 issue of Critical Connections. To submit your inspiring patient care story, visit www.iamsccm.org by Wednesday, October 1, 2008.
