Site, Sessions and Social Events Add Up to Another Conference to Remember
As it seems to every year, CANP’s 36th Annual Educational Conference left future renditions a tough act to follow. More than 500 nurse practitioners and other health care professionals gathered March 21-24 in Monterey for the event, taking advantage of ample opportunities to earn Continuing Education credits, network with peers and soak in the surrounding splendor of California’s Central Coast.
Among the highlights was the keynote presentation by Dr. Susan Apold, the former President of the American College of Nurse Practitioners who is widely regarded as one of the leading national voices in support of nurse practitioners. Dr. Apold’s address recapped the achievements and challenges of legislative and regulatory efforts to permit NPs to practice to the full extent of their training and expertise.
Nearly 70 educational sessions were available to attendees. With efforts to expand the scope of practice for NPs the hot topic throughout the week, it’s no surprise that “NPs on the Frontline of Health Care” was among the best-attended sessions. A standing-room-only crowd heard Kristy Wiese, CANP Legislative Advocate; Donna Emanuele, CANP President Elect; and Sherrie Lowenstein, Deputy Director for Legislative Affairs from the Department of Managed Health Care; address the California Health Benefit Exchange and the role of nurse practitioners with the coming implementation of the Affordable Care Act.
In addition to the educational component, the conference’s social events were as popular as ever. Always a conference highlight, the Town Hall Gala featured the announcement of the annual CANP Awards. Former CANP President Surani Kwan received the Nurse Practitioner of Distinction Award, while Debra Palmer, Chair of CANP’s Health Policy Committee, was presented the Bridging Health Care Needs Award. Following the Gala, attendees danced and partied into the evening during the Casino Night event, and nearly 100 returned the following morning at the crack of dawn to take part in the 5K/10K Fun Run.
The exhibitor expo provided conference attendees the chance to discover the most advanced technologies and latest services available through vendors from across the nation. The expo culminated with the annual fundraising raffle that generated nearly $12,000 for the association. In addition, contributions to the CANP Political Action Committee pushed total PAC proceeds beyond its goal of $25,000.
Planning is already under way for next year’s event, slated for March 20-23, 2014 in Newport Beach.