MCRA 2009 Conference in Nashville was a hit! 

The beautiful and historical Hermitage Hotel was the perfect setting for another great conference!

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“MCRA put together a great conference – great hotel, location, speakers and events!”

“Thanks so much to the Board!  I really consider this my favorite conference of the year.” 

A big thanks to those organizations who sponsored our breaks, meals, gifts and evening events.

MCRA attendees enjoyed our Monday evening reception held at the beautiful Hermitage Hotel in downtown Nashville.

“Loved the hotel!”

What a way to start the day!  On Tuesday morning we heard from Dr. Mary Ellen Weber, a NASA Astronaut and veteran of two Space Shuttle flights.  She shared with us the importance of discipline, responsibility and teamwork and the impact on our professional excellence. 

“Was fascinating to listen to, and her presentation was helpful both professionally and personally.”

We gained a better understanding of Medicare’s “Never Events” through Dr. Winifred Hayes presentation.  She shared the impact on medical costs, as well as how CMS, Medicaid, insurers and self-funded plans are addressing “Never Events.”

“Very informative and extremely valuable.”

Susan Spalding with ITA Partners shared how evidence-based treatment can both reduce healthcare costs and improve quality of care, including the care of cancer patients. 

“Needed this info – we work with ITA and always learn.”

Tuesday afternoon was focused on pandemics and the reinsurance products offered to cover this risk.  Our speakers Joël Thompson, President of AuclairRe International, John Iacono, Underwriting Manager with Sutton Reinsurance Underwriters, and Misha Novacovik, VP Underwriting at Catlin Insurance Company, all shared their perspectives on the world-wide concern of a pandemic. 

“Very timely!”

Tuesday evening’s group outing was enjoyed by one and all!  What a spectacular time at The Bluebird Café!  We listened to great singer/songwriters George Teren (Ladies Love Country Boys), Georgia Middleman (I’m In), and Marv Green (Amazed).  Check out The Bluebird’s schedule for your next visit to Nashville:  http://www.bluebirdcafe.com.

Voted #1 for best part of the conference!

Wednesday started with a topic the whole nation is discussing:  Health Care Reform.  Testifying regularly before Congress and advising senior government officials, governors, and state legislators on health policy, Grace-Marie Turner was able to share her inside viewpoint on health reform.  To hear more on the debate and to sign up for her newsletter, visit The Galen Institute’s web site:  http://www.galen.org/content/home.html.

“Excellent review of current affairs.”

Things were wrapped up mid-morning by Alden Skar, VP and Managing Actuary with ING Reinsurance, and Tim Rice, VP Actuarial Consulting with Ingenix Consulting.  They “schooled” us on large-claim trends. 

“Good information!”

Thank you to our 2009 MCRA Board Co-Presidents, Julaine Crossman Novak and Robin Brown!

“Enjoyed all aspects – sessions, location, timing of the sessions, dynamic speakers – all excellent! 
Great job to the Board!