Heartland Conference issues Call for Speakers in October each year. Speakers may submit up to five (5) proposals. 

Interested speakers must submit all proposals using the online form at https://events.vgm.com/heartland/speak. 

All submissions are due December 15, 2025. 

Our conference team along with a VGM subject matter experts will review all submissions early January and rate them based on topic relevance, learning objectives, audience engagement potential, speaker expertise and experience, innovation, and session format and fit. Once final topic and speaker selections are made, notification will be sent to all submitters no later than January 30, 2026. Our education pillar will work with the selected speakers throughout the session development process to ensure compliance with the approved learning objectives to ensure educational value and avoid overlap and overt commercialism. 

SPEAKER FAQs >

To ensure the Heartland Conference delivers high-impact, actionable education, all speaker proposals must include clear and measurable learning objectives. These objectives help our review committee accurately evaluate submissions and determine eligibility for Continuing Education Units (CEUs).

Learning objectives should reflect what participants will be able to do, apply, or understand after attending your session. Each objective must complete the sentence: “After completing this session, the participant will be able to…”

For example:

• “…identify three common billing errors and how to avoid them.”
• “…apply leadership strategies to improve team engagement.”
• “…evaluate new respiratory technologies for patient care.”

Sessions should go beyond theory. We encourage proposals that include:

• Real-world examples, case studies, and lessons learned
• Interactive elements such as group discussions, exercises, or activities
• Tools, templates, and resources that attendees can use beyond the session

If selected, speakers will be required to submit final presentation materials and supporting resources (e.g., sources, articles, guides) 6 weeks prior to the event. These materials will undergo a quality review to ensure they meet educational and compliance standards and add value for attendees.

Proposals without learning objectives may not be considered for selection. These objectives are essential not only for session planning, but also for ensuring attendees receive CEU credit for their participation.

Whether you're presenting solo or as part of a panel, your session should be designed to educate, engage, and empower. We look forward to seeing how your expertise can help shape the future of the HME industry.

Speaking at the Heartland Conference is more than just presenting—it's an opportunity to lead, connect, and grow within the HME industry. Whether you're a seasoned expert or a rising voice, sharing your insights can make a lasting impact.

As a Heartland speaker, you will:

• Expand your professional reach by presenting to over 1,000 attendees from across the country
• Establish thought leadership in your area of expertise
• Contribute to industry advancement by sharing real-world solutions and innovative ideas
• Network with peers and decision-makers from the HME, respiratory, and complex rehab sectors
• Receive recognition and visibility through conference promotions and materials
• Support continuing education by helping attendees earn CEU credits through your session
• Enhance your own learning through dialogue, feedback, and collaboration with other professionals

Whether you're presenting solo or as part of a panel, your voice matters. Join us in shaping the future of healthcare and home medical equipment.

Billing & Compliance

Explore the ever-evolving world of reimbursement, audits, and regulatory requirements. This track is ideal for experts who can simplify complex rules, share best practices, and help providers stay compliant while maximizing revenue.

Business Operations

From streamlining workflows to scaling sustainably, this track focuses on the nuts and bolts of running a successful HME business. Topics may include financial strategy, team efficiency, inventory management, and operational innovation.

Complex Rehab Technology

Dive into the specialized world of CRT, where clinical expertise meets cutting-edge equipment. This track welcomes sessions on funding advocacy, documentation, pediatric solutions, and collaborative care models that improve patient outcomes.

Leadership & People Strategy

Designed for those shaping the future of their organizations, this track covers leadership development, coaching, team culture, succession planning, and strategies for engaging and empowering people at every level.

Respiratory

Focus on the latest clinical practices, technologies, and patient engagement strategies in respiratory care. Ideal for professionals working with CPAP, oxygen therapy, remote monitoring, and chronic condition management.

Sales, Marketing & Retail

This track is all about driving growth through customer connection. Topics include digital marketing, retail showroom strategies, brand building, and training sales teams to deliver value and close deals.

Technology & Security

Explore the intersection of innovation and protection. This track covers cybersecurity, HIPAA compliance, automation, AI, and choosing the right tech tools to support and secure your business.

Integrated Health & Policy

For those navigating the broader healthcare ecosystem, this track includes value-based care models, legislative updates, payer partnerships, and advocacy strategies that shape the future of home-based care.