The Fall 2008 IDN Summit & Expo will be held at the Biltmore Resort in Phoenix, AZ, from September 2-4. It is truly a one-of-a-kind event, creating an extraordinary venue promoting high quality buyer-seller networking through a unique "reverse" expo, for the past 14 years.

Using a "reverse" trade show format, IDN allows health system purchasing executives to man the exhibit booths while suppliers and GPOs visit them. Not only do attendees have the opportunity to visit health system exhibits, they can also visit the seven national GPOs in hospitality suites. As many as 70 health systems representing more than 60% of our country's hospital purchasing power will be at their booths throughout the day.

This year's fall event will feature Keynote addresses from Dr. Mark McClellan, former Administrator, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services and former Commissioner of the FDA, Mr. John M. Kelly, Corporate VP and President of Xerox Global Services, North America. There will be private breakout sessions to assist attending suppliers with better methods for improving relationships and increasing business. Also, themed networking receptions with interactive games will take place, designed to enhance networking opportunities and buying experience.

In the spirit of care chain transformation, IDN hosts the annual Healthcare Innovators contest, to identify those organizations that have adopted cutting edge approaches to improving the healthcare supply chain. At every Fall IDN Summit & Expo, a winner is announced, a representative accepts the award, and an informative video piece on the organization is played.

Time for Work and Play

For those attendees who want to network, they will kick off this fall's event with a golf tournament on September 2nd. The event is sponsored by Huntleigh Healthcare at the beautiful Adobe course -- a forefather of modern design -- located at the Arizona Biltmore.

The IDN Summit also produces a special supply chain Innovation Workshop Series for both suppliers and health system attendees. These Innovation Workshops focus separately on issues impacting health systems and suppliers and provide an opportunity to share creative, breakthrough ideas with business partners and peers.

Greater Phoenix

In Phoenix, you'll find everything from world-class hotels and resorts to fine dining, fabulous malls and shops, and breath-taking scenery. There are more than 325 days of annual sunshine so attendees can count on exceptional weather for exciting activities such as tours, sightseeing excursions and golf outings on their down time. Copper Square, in Downtown Phoenix, holds arts and performances, as well as sporting events, for those who want to experience their enriching culture.