Gregory Davis, MSHIMA President and Kelly Williams, First-Year Delegate
MSHIMA leadership, including the President, President-elect, and first year Delegate, participated in the 2026 AHIMA House of Delegates meeting, contributing to important discussions about the future of the health information (HI) profession.
The morning session included voting on several routine business items and receiving updates from AHIMA leadership regarding organizational initiatives, priorities, and plans for the future.
During the afternoon session, delegates participated in strategic planning discussions designed to help shape AHIMA's future direction. A significant focus was the growing impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the HI profession and the resources needed to support professionals as AI continues to transform healthcare.
Delegates provided input on the types of AI resources, tools, and educational opportunities needed to prepare the HI workforce for these changes. These conversations emphasized the importance of AI governance education, including responsible AI implementation, data integrity, privacy, compliance, and ethical considerations. Delegates also stressed the need to incorporate AI education into health information academic programs while expanding continuing education and professional development opportunities for current HI professionals.
The discussions reinforced the importance of ensuring that HI professionals are not only prepared to use emerging AI technologies but are also equipped to participate in developing governance practices and organizational policies that guide their responsible use.
Beyond the formal sessions, the meeting provided valuable opportunities for networking and collaboration. MSHIMA representatives strengthened connections within our own leadership team while engaging with delegates from other states to exchange ideas, share experiences, and discuss common challenges and opportunities facing the HI profession. These interactions offered fresh perspectives and opportunities to bring innovative ideas and best practices back to Mississippi.
MSHIMA was proud to contribute to these important conversations and provide input on the future direction of AHIMA. Our participation reflects our continued commitment to advancing the HI profession, fostering collaboration across state associations, supporting professional education, and ensuring that Mississippi's HI professionals have a voice in shaping the future of healthcare.
Mississippi on the AHIMA26 Stage
On Monday, October 5, I was recognized at the opening general session as a new Fellow of AHIMA. Right after that, I sat on the "A Conversation with AHIMA Fellows" panel with Katherine Lusk, Debi Primeau, and Teresa Smithrud. Charniece J. Martin and Kimberly McGhee from AHIMA's Emerging Professionals Advisory Council moderated, and we talked about how each of us got where we are, what we have learned along the way, and advice for people building their HI careers.
Ketyra, who is Assistant HIM Director at Forrest Health, presented in the next session block. Her session, "Value-Based Purchasing and HIM Data Integrity: Reducing CMS Penalties Through Coding, CDI, and Quality Alignment," covered how HVBP, HRRP, the HAC Reduction Program, and PSI-90 depend on accurate coding, POA reporting, and clinical documentation, and how gaps in those areas can turn into penalties for hospitals. She also shared strategies for governance and audit readiness. It was great to see one of our own on the national stage.
Reflections from Our President-elect
Ketyra Clayton, MSHIMA President-elect
"AHIMA26 and the House of Delegates provided an inspiring opportunity to connect, collaborate, and reflect on the future of HIM. I was encouraged by AHIMA's emphasis on innovation and artificial intelligence, along with its renewed commitment to member engagement, connection, and support.
Presenting on Value-Based Purchasing reinforced the impact our expertise can have beyond our individual organizations. The experience also strengthened my interest in AHIMA leadership and advocating for HIM's role in AI governance.
My final thoughts: Share your expertise, pursue leadership opportunities, and embrace innovation. Together, we can help shape the future of our profession."
Looking Ahead
AI governance and data integrity came up again and again, both at HOD and throughout the conference. MSHIMA will keep those topics in front of our members through our education this year. If you have thought about presenting, volunteering, or serving in a leadership role, I encourage you to go for it. Ketyra is a good example of what that can look like.
Mark your calendars: AHIMA27 will be held in Phoenix, Arizona, September 12 to 14, 2027. I hope to see even more Mississippi members there.
Thank you to Kelly and Ketyra for representing MSHIMA so well.
