Before I begin my usual commentary, I want to wish everyone a wonderful holiday and prosperous new year. It’s a little hard to believe that it’s almost 2018—a year, I admit, that seemed futuristic only years ago. And while 2018 may not be inundated with the flying cars I once envisioned, the year will undoubtedly welcome a host of technological innovations—particularly on the medical front.

As always, 24×7 Magazine will report on all the breaking healthcare technology management (HTM) news as it comes—something we’ve done for nearly 22 years. To me, one of the magazine’s biggest assets is its longevity; no other industry publication can boast that it has been around since the mid-‘90s.

Keri Forsythe-Stephens, Chief Editor

Keri Forsythe-Stephens, Chief Editor

The fact that 24×7 Magazine has been in circulation for more than two decades also provides us with fodder for editorial. Our staff can physically flip through our personal stashes of magazine archives and read articles from five, 10, 15 years back—enabling us to see which types of articles would work in 2018.

It’s a major asset—and one we will utilize in the January issue of 24×7 Magazine. In the upcoming January issue, you’ll notice two new (well, not-so-new) columns in this month’s issue: “A Day in the Life” and “Tools of the Trade.” Both columns are departments that we previously ran in the magazine, and we’re excited to bring them back.

For reference, “A Day in the Life” will profile one hospital HTM department, providing an in-depth look at what makes that department run like a well-oiled machine. This month’s edition of “A Day in the Life” features the Indianapolis-based Eskenazi Health, a biomedical engineering department known for its focus on service, efficiency, and teamwork. But don’t take my word for it—be sure to read the article for yourself.

Moreover, “Tools of the Trade,” which replaces 2017’s “Product Showcase” department, spotlights one product that HTMs can use in their professional arsenal. January’s installment highlights a spot-check device for blood pressure monitoring, but we’re always looking for more products to feature. So, please e-mail me your “Tools of the Trade” submissions at [email protected].

Finally, something entirely new to 24×7 Magazine—but extremely timely and relevant in the industry—is our department, “Growing a Career.” This column—which responds to readers’ pressing concerns about education in the HTM sector—launches with an article by 24×7 Magazine editorial board member and educator Barbara Christe, PhD, about new degree opportunities in HTM. It will, no doubt, be a favorite among readers.

Happy Holidays!