PHOENIX – Why have trade shows managed to survive in the Internet age? After all, you can see images of virtually every product under the sun with a simple Google search. You can acquire information by reading countless articles.

In my experience, it comes down to time, effort, and inspiration. Spending the time and effort to travel to a new city, listen to in-person experts, and see and touch new products has a way of generating the secret ingredient—inspiration. Inspiration is the one thing you can’t buy from Amazon and it often comes from getting out of your comfort zone and seeking out new experiences.

Medtrade West is one place where you can indeed find inspiration. The dates are April 4-6, 2022 in Phoenix, Arizona, and SmartSaver rates will soon be in effect. SmartSavers are the absolute lowest possible rates for Medtrade West, and they amount to a phenomenal value. Keep your eye on Medtrade Monday and/or your e-mail for the exact start of SmartSaver rates because they are coming soon.

For all of you who celebrated Thanksgiving last week, I hope you had a pleasant holiday. I am thankful for all those who decided to make the trip to Atlanta last month for Medtrade East, and I’m thankful for the HME industry professionals who have helped their patients, often under difficult circumstances.

Throughout the pandemic, it seems that government entities have come to appreciate the HME industry just a bit more, and that’s a positive. As they go forward in deciding policy matters, let’s hope they have a good memory. As always, Medtrade will be here as a rallying point and a great way to find that elusive ingredient to your professional life—inspiration.

York Schwab is associate show director, Medtrade.