Meet Our Speakers

Bio coming soon

Topic: Cultivating Customer Service and Using Data to Prove It

Objectives: 

1. 1. Define what customer service is in relation to sterile processing

   2. Break down Key Performance Indicators and Quality Audits, and how they prove customer service

   3. How to utilize instrument tracking systems with KPIs and customer service

Angela Ritchey has worked in Sterile Processing for more than 17 years as a Tech, Lead, and Associate Manager, playing an active role in opening an off-site reprocessing center. Before joining STERIS as a Clinical Education Specialist, she was most recently Market Manager of Sterile Processing for eight hospitals in Nebraska and western Iowa. 

Angela holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Nebraska at Lincoln and a Master of Arts in English from the University of Nebraska at Omaha. In 2024, Angela founded the Nebraska Sterile Processing Association—a chapter of HSPA. She has written several articles for industry publications, holds CRCST, CIS, CHL, CQIA, and GTS certifications, and is a member of HSPA, AORN, APIC, ASQ, and SGNA.  

Presentation Title: SPD LIVE!

Objectives:

• navigating real-world scenarios such as missing instruments, decontamination delays, and maintaining flow under pressure.

• Demonstrate the impact of common operational issues and encourages reflection on how to optimize performance through staffing, equipment, and process efficiency.

• Foster collaboration and empathy between departments.

Sterile Processing Educator and Thought Leader with 18+ years of experience driving education, compliance, and innovation across sterile processing departments and the broader healthcare industry. Adam is the President and Founder of the Central California Chapter of HSPA (formerly IAHCSMM), leading chapter initiatives, education, and governance.

Currently serving as Clinical Education Specialist at Healthmark, a Getinge company, Adam develops national-level continuing education content, delivers training to healthcare facilities across the country, and represents the organization at national conferences and industry events.

On a mission since having her eye removed due to a rare and incurable cancer diagnosis in the summer of 2022, Linds Brown explores North America inspiring audiences with a simple message: Time is, indeed, on your side. As a healthcare executive with Beyond Clean, birth & postpartum doula, and one-eyed joke enthusiast, Linds charms audiences with rare authenticity and timely charges. Linds is a Certified Registered Central Service Technician, a Certified Flexible Endoscope Reprocessor, and a Certified Central Service Vendor Partner. Her three vibrant children and supportive husband fill the rest of her time in the most wonderful ways. 

Sponsored By DSI

Presentation Title: On Your Side: Exploring the Preciousness & Renewability of Time.

Objectives:

• Discuss the ways in which "time" impacts safe surgery

• Discuss the role of Sterile Processing from a patient's perspective 

• Explore ways that we all can view our lives and choices differently knowing that time is both renewable and precious

• Discuss specific lessons learned about time and apply those lessons to being intentional in our professional and personal lives
  

George Cronin has worked in the medical industry since 1997. George'sfirst position was as a Sales Representative for Surgipath Medical Industries, Inc. in 1997. In 1998, they became a Sales Representative for Pentax Medical Company, where they sold flexible endoscopes and related equipment. In 1999, they moved to SLC Medical Solutions llc as a Principal. In 2009, they joined EndoChoice as a Regional Sales Manager-Northeast/NYC and Sr.Territory Manager. Since 2017, they have been the National Sales Manager for TRICOR Systems Inc., where they head the sales network, manages partnerships with outside distributors, is responsible for new product development and marketing, and leads go-to-market strategies.

As a Clinical Education Specialist, I bring my passion and experience in sterile processing to the

forefront of my work everyday. I began as a technician in 2017 and became an education

coordinator after progressing through various, advancing roles. My educational background

includes holding 4 HSPA certifications and a bachelors degree in Healthcare Administration. My

expertise covers areas such as process improvement planning and implementation, recruitment,

education, and construction project management. I strive to raise awareness and advocate for

the needs and education of our professionals in the instrument reprocessing profession.

Title: The Last Line of Defense: The Impact of Prep & Pack

Objectives:

• Discuss findings and impacts of insufficient prep & pack processes

• Discuss the types and goals of quality inspection used in prep & pack

• Identify variables and measurables that impact quality throughput in Prep & Pack