As this Newsletter goes to print, America’s Blood Centers’ 12th bi-annual Financial Management Workshop will coming to a close. It is amazing how far this workshop has progressed since 1990 when a group of accountants, including me, decided that blood center financial professionals needed an opportunity to come together and share ideas. At this year’s workshop, titled “Financial Management: Thinking Strategically in an Uncertain World,” we discussed the “State of the Industry” from the blood center executive, supplier, and hospital viewpoints. Attendees heard presentations addressing whether our business models are sustainable, shared success stories on how to enhance the bottom-line, and much more.
Certified public accountants (CPAs) enjoyed an added benefit by attending this year’s workshop, earning 13 Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits. This possibility became a reality through the hard work of Arlin Hall, CPA, and chief financial officer of The Blood & Tissue Center of Central Texas. Due to his efforts, The National Association of State Boards of Accountancy approved ABC as a registered sponsor on the National Registry of CPEs. Being designated on the National Registry is a big deal, but not unexpected – after all, education is one of ABC’s core values. Our educational programs typically receive high marks, as we have the advantage of utilizing the combined expertise and talents of our members. The strength and knowledge of our members once again contributed to a successful Financial Management Workshop, providing valuable educational experience for attendees.
On another subject, this will be my last Our Space article as ABC’s interim CEO, as you likely saw on the front-page article that ABC has selected a new CEO. During my short tenure I benefited from a great staff and incredible support from ABC’s member blood centers, for which I am grateful. As ABC and its blood center members navigate through the challenging and evolving healthcare environment, it is comforting to know that ABC will be in good hands under the direction of Christine.
William Coenen, Interim CEO;Â Â wmcoenen@americasblood.org