Has it ever struck you how some patient advocates seem well-connected, confident speaking at events, and informed about the newest healthcare research? One thing many of them have in common is that they attend medical conferences. These events aren’t just for clinicians or researchers; they’re spaces where patient voices are more and more recognized, respected, and included. Showing up can lead to new knowledge and authentic connections and can lead to unexpected opportunities.
Why Go to Medical Conferences?
Medical conferences offer advocates direct access to up-to-date scientific information, innovations, and the people driving advancements in healthcare. But even more valuable is the space they create to connect with others and grow in your advocacy.
In this article, I want to show you how these events can elevate your advocacy and share some ways to maximize these meetings.
1. Conferences Help You Cultivate Professional Relationships
One of the most advantageous aspects of attending a conference is the access it gives you to a diverse network of people—researchers, clinicians, policymakers, fellow advocates, and more. You never know how something you share might inspire someone or how another person’s story might shift your thinking.
Try This: Take the lead in starting conversations. Ask thoughtful, open-ended questions like, “What projects are you working on that you’re excited about?” After the event, follow up with a quick message or email to keep the dialogue going and lay the foundation for long-term collaboration.
2. You Strengthen Your Voice—and Your Confidence
Conferences provide a dynamic environment to sharpen your communication skills, refine your advocacy message, and build confidence. Every interaction – introducing yourself to a new contact, asking a question in a session, or speaking from the stage—helps you refine your message and grow more confident in your role as an advocate. For many advocates, the experience of stepping onto a stage or leading a discussion becomes a turning point—one that affirms their voice and deepens their impact.
Try This: If you’re offered a chance to speak—even briefly—say yes. You don’t need to be perfect—you just need to be present and authentic.
3. You Leave Recharged and Reconnected to Your Purpose
Advocacy can be deeply rewarding but equally draining. The energy of a live event, paired with the shared experiences of others, can bring your purpose back into focus and remind you of why your advocacy matters.
Try This: Jot down key takeaways, moments that moved you, and ideas that energized you. Then ask yourself: What lit me up—and how can I bring that feeling back into my day-to-day work?
4. You Stay Informed—and Ready to Lead
Healthcare is always changing, so we need to keep learning. Attending conferences provides an excellent chance to learn about the latest research, evolving policies, and emerging innovations. When you’re informed, you’re better equipped to speak with authority, engage with stakeholders, and drive change in your community.
Try This: Choose a mix of scientific, policy, and patient-centered tracks. If something isn’t clear, ask. Curiosity is a strength, and most presenters welcome thoughtful follow-up questions or requests for additional resources.
5. You Find a Community That Truly Understands
One of the greatest rewards of attending conferences isn’t just what you learn—it’s who you meet. In a space where lived experience is valued, you’ll find emotional validation, peer support, and a sense of belonging that’s hard to find elsewhere. It’s a reminder that you’re not in this alone—and that together, you’re part of a larger movement.
Try this: Make time for informal events like coffee chats or social mixers. It’s often in these relaxed settings where the most authentic connections are made.
6. You Gain Tools That Help You Do More
Beyond networking and inspiration, conferences provide practical tools like handouts or toolkits that can enhance your work. The right tool in the right hands can make a big difference—and those hands are yours.
Try this: Don’t hesitate to ask speakers or vendors if they have slides, toolkits, or resource links you can share with your community. Most are more than willing to help advocates carry the message forward.
Finding the Right Conferences
Not all conferences are created equal when it comes to welcoming advocates. Here are a few that are known for being inclusive and supportive.
- Patients as Partners (by The Conference Forum): Focused on patient engagement in drug development. Offers patient scholarships.
- Global Genes Rare Advocacy Summit: Patient-centered, highly inclusive of the rare disease community.
- PCORI Annual Meeting: Offers travel support for patient and caregiver participants.
- EURORDIS Winter School & Summer School: Training and events for rare disease advocates in Europe.
- DIA (Drug Information Association): Includes patient forums and scholarship programs for advocates.
Sample Email: Reaching Out to a Conference Organizer
Subject: Inquiry About Patient Advocate Participation at [Conference Name]
Dear [Organizer’s Name or Team],
My name is [Your Name], and I’m a patient advocate working in the area of [Your Focus Area]. I’m interested in attending [Conference Name] and would like to learn more about opportunities for patient advocates—whether through attendance, speaking roles, or available scholarships and fee waivers.
Could you please provide information on any support programs available or advise on how best to get involved?
Thank you for your time and for your efforts to make conferences more inclusive.
Kind regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Affiliation or Personal Advocacy Page, if relevant]
[Your Email / Contact Info]
Scholarships and Travel Support for Advocates
Many conferences offer scholarships and travel support to ensure that financial barriers do not limit participation.
Here’s how to find and apply:
- Look for sections like “Patient Engagement” or “Community Track” on the conference website.
- Apply early—scholarship deadlines often come months before the event.
- If you don’t see anything listed, send a polite inquiry. Sometimes, support is available even if not widely advertised.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Sit This One Out
Conferences are more than events—they’re platforms for advocacy, learning, and collective progress. Whether you’re attending in person or logging in virtually, showing up puts you in the rooms where decisions are made, perspectives are shifted, and advocacy takes root. Your voice belongs in those rooms. Your story matters. So show up, speak up, and claim your space. Because when patient advocates are in the room, everyone benefits.
