It’s the most wonderful time of year for PioneerRx. Catalyst Connect 2023 is rapidly approaching, where independent pharmacists and other healthcare professionals come together to learn, network, and innovate.
Whether you’re a seasoned vet of the tradeshow floor or new to the event, we’ve got you covered. Going to a trade show is a massive undertaking, so make sure you’ve crossed your Ts and dotted your Is.
If you need some pointers or a refresher course, look no further. Welcome to the Catalyst Connect Survival Guide.
As an independent pharmacist, you know how essential it is to have a plan. As they say, conquer the day so the day doesn’t conquer you. Here are some tips to prepare for Catalyst Connect.
First things first: check that you’re successfully registered for Catalyst Connect. If you’re going in a group, ensure the whole group is correctly registered; i.e., that John Smith is not going as Jane Doe.
Next, if you’re flying to Catalyst Connect (Nashville for this year’s event), check your flight tickets are good to go.
If you’re driving, make sure your route is time-efficient. That means looking at traffic patterns and knowing when a two-hour drive can turn into five. Simply put, go with time and you’ll have a good time.
Catalyst Connect typically happens during the summer. This year’s event starts from June 8 - 11. The summer heatwave is likely going to be as present as you are for this year’s Connect, so bring the appropriate clothing.
While it’ll be blazing hot outside, the Gaylord Opryland might feel like a tundra by comparison. Bring a light jacket so you don’t become an ice cube.
Few things come in clutch as much as a reusable water bottle. Master both form and function (and hydration) by bringing a reusable water bottle.
You’re creating a plan of action, so it’d help to know where you’re going. First, download the Catalyst Connect Attendee app. It has all the information you need about the event’s classes and exhibitors.
If you’re in a group, you can decide who goes to what class so you can all get the full Catalyst Connect experience.
The PioneerRx Catalyst Connect app is a superb resource for any question about any of the event’s classes or exhibitors. Download the app to get access to slide decks for any class you’re going to.
The app also lets you learn more about this year’s speakers and exhibitors, which can let the networking process a little less daunting.
Then download the Gaylord Hotels: Resort app. The Nashville Gaylord is a massive hotel and the app gives you literal step-by-step directions to your room, exhibitor hall, or restaurant of choice.
Both apps help make your Catalyst Connect experience as smooth as possible. Whether you’re running to the next class or grabbing a bite to eat, these apps are absolute must-haves.
Registering for Catalyst Connect means you have access to invaluable tips to help improve your business.
This year’s event will also hold a Care Goal workshop held by Amina Abubakar, CEO at Avant Pharmacy and Wellness and friend of the Catalyst Pharmacy Podcast.
The workshop will utilize PioneerRx software, so you must bring a Windows Wi-Fi-enabled laptop that can run PioneerRx to participate. Laptops will not be provided in the workshop.
Now you’re here. Now that you have your plan of action and know the event schedule like the back of your hand, it’s time to step foot into the exhibitor hall.
Registration will be at the Gaylord’s Presidential Lobby (use the Gaylord app to find it). Pick up your badges and workbook. You’ve got a big day (days, actually) ahead of you.
As mentioned earlier, being a Catalyst Connect attendee gives you exclusive access to vital resources that can further your business’s success. Our workbook has a large notes section — fill it all up.
All classes and speakers can make you look at pharmacy work, patient care, and business in a new and enlightening way. You’re at Catalyst Connect to be a sponge, so absorb all that information and write it down.
The learning doesn’t stop when the classes end. You and other Catalyst Connect attendees are some of the brightest minds in the industry, so why not bounce ideas off each other?
Networking is an essential part of your pharmacy’s success. Just hearing another pharmacist talking about their work can reignite something in you — a new idea or way of doing certain tasks.
It takes a village to provide excellent patient care. And it can take as much to find that next great idea.
Time flies by when you’re having fun, so make the most of it. Catalyst Connect has all kinds of exhibitors and booths that can elevate your business. It’s also worth it to learn different perspectives on familiar concepts.
The charm of the independent pharmacy industry is how you can put your own unique stamp on patient care. You don’t always need to have a “my way or the highway approach to pharmacy work.”
These booths can give you that spark you never knew you needed.
You can also win prizes for visiting all the booths at Catalyst Connect. You get valuable networking experience and you can win prizes. Not too shabby.
As mentioned earlier, the Gaylord app paints a picture of what you can do after class. In the case of this year’s event, there is no shortage of things to do in Nashville.
For starters, Catalyst Connect 2023 is happening during CMA Music Fest (also from June 8 - 11).
This is perfect for all you country fans out there: learn some valuable industry tidbits and then listen to the likes of Luke Combs, Keith Urban, and Miranda Lambert.
Visit the CMA Fest website to learn more about the festival’s schedule and lineup.
If you prefer to stay in the Gaylord during your evenings, you’re in luck. You can visit the Jack Daniels restaurant for some supper and a nightcap, or go to the Solario Cantina if you’re in the mood for Mexican food and margaritas.
Want some fun for the family? The Soundwaves water park is there to splash up your day.
Check out the Gaylord’s official website for more restaurants and attractions.
If you want to branch out of the Gaylord but avoid the madness of CMA Fest, check out the “Thing to Do in Nashville” page at VisitMusicCity.com
Going to Catalyst Connect is a large time and financial investment. Get more than your money’s worth by finding your why. Catalyst Connect is a superb opportunity to learn from the industry’s best and brightest.
The primary objective of Catalyst Connect is to learn about new business opportunities and services.
While it is a PioneerRx event, it is not a place to ask specific questions about software issues. Remember to contact your account manager for software-specific issues or questions.
Planning and preparation are the names of the game for Catalyst Connect.
We hope this guide helps you as you plan your trip. Whether you’re on the tradeshow floor or exploring Nashville nightlife, make the most of your time for those three days.
Return to your independent pharmacy as a refreshed, rejuvenated, and newly inspired healthcare professional. All you need is a plan of action.
