2026 Spring Conference and Trade Show

Join us for our 2026 Spring Conference & Trade Show on Wednesday, March 25th at the DCU Center in Worcester! We are especially thrilled to welcome back Steven Littlehale, MS, RN, GCNS, Chief Innovation Officer at Zimmet Healthcare Services Group, LLC, as our Keynote Speaker! Steven is a nationally recognized leader in post-acute and long-term care analytics, known for transforming complex data into meaningful clinical action. He brings extensive experience working with interdisciplinary teams to align clinical, operational, and financial goals across nursing facilities and other LTPAC settings –making his insights both practical and impactful for today’s leaders. Additional educational sessions will feature representatives from the Executive Office of Health and Human Services, who will share what nursing facility providers need to know about the new consolidated Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) credential; staff from Mass Senior Care, who will provide a snapshot of nursing facility staffing in Massachusetts; and a Best Practice Provider Panel that will highlight effective workforce development and retention strategies. Attendees will have the opportunity to earn CEUs, engage with peers from across the long term care continuum, and connect with over 50 exhibitors showcasing products and services that support today’s workforce and operational needs.

Morning Session: 9:30am –11:30am –North Ballroom

Welcome and President’s Perspective
Tara M. Gregorio, President & CEO, Massachusetts Senior Care Association

Chair’s Report
Tom Lavallee, Chair, Massachusetts Senior Care Association Board of Directors; COO, Alliance Health Management Services
 

Keynote Presentation

From Reactive to Predictive: Mastering Quality Measures and Staffing Before They Hit Your Scores

Steven Littlehale, MS, RN, GCNS, Chief Innovation Officer
Zimmet Healthcare Services Group, LLC

Move from reactive fixes to predictive control. Learn how staffing, competency, and emerging analytics intersect with CMS Quality Measures and Five-Star ratings –so you can spot risk early, prevent score drops, and sustain strong performance.

Trade Show & Buffet Lunch: 11:30am –1:00pm –Pre-Function & South/Center Ballroom
 

Afternoon Session: 1:00pm –3:00pm –North Ballroom

The State of the Nursing Workforce: Where We Are, Where We’re Going
Tara M. Gregorio, President & CEO, Massachusetts Senior Care Association
 

One Credential, Stronger Care: Massachusetts’ New Nurse Aide Certification
Representatives from the Executive Office of Health and Human Services
 

Best Practices in Action: Successes in Leveraging Career Ladder Opportunities
Nursing Facility Provider Panel