2026 OONL Conference Begins Next Week; Still Time to Register

Representatives from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services led a webinar this past week to learn about the voluntary Make Hospital Food Healthier Pledge and how hospitals and health systems can participate. The HHS/CMS team provided an overview of the pledge, addressed frequently asked questions and shared promising practices from hospitals working to create healthier food environments for patients, employees and visitors. In case you missed it, you can watch the full recorded webinar here.

OHA is accepting nominations for the 2027 Albert E. Dyckes Health Care Worker of the Year Award, which recognizes an exceptional front-line health care worker from an OHA member hospital or health system. Nominations are due Monday, Nov. 30, 2026. Each member hospital may nominate one eligible employee who routinely goes beyond the call of duty, reflects their organization’s mission and values and gives back to the community. Direct caregivers, support personnel and physicians are eligible. Two high-resolution photos, including at least one headshot, must accompany each nomination. All nominees will be recognized on social media leading up to OHA’s Recognition…

National Healthcare Facilities and Engineering Week, observed Oct. 25-31, recognizes the essential contributions of health care facilities professionals who help ensure safe, efficient and reliable care environments for patients, visitors and staff. The observance highlights the critical role facilities and engineering teams play in maintaining hospital infrastructure, supporting regulatory compliance, strengthening emergency preparedness and advancing innovative health care environments. Hospitals and health systems are encouraged to recognize these professionals and celebrate their impact on patient care and operations. Learn more about National Healthcare Facilities and Engineering Week and access resources here.

OHA is accepting proposals for educational presentations at the 112th OHA Annual Membership Meeting, with submissions due Dec. 31, 2026. Presentations should be 60 minutes, including time for questions, and address one of six educational tracks: Clinical Excellence Finance Strategy & Sustainability Innovative Nursing Practice & Leadership Legal, Compliance & Risk Strategic Health Care Leadership Workforce Strategy & Employee Experience Proposals will be reviewed by OHA member representatives, professional membership group leaders and OHA staff, with preference given to topics broadly applicable to the hospital community. Submit a proposal or preview the application.