Learn, Innovate, and Connect at Clinical Congress 2026

ACS Clinical Congress 2026, taking place September 26–29 in Washington, DC, is designed to deliver practical education, innovation, and meaningful professional connections for surgeons at every stage of their careers. 

From residents and early career surgeons to seasoned specialists and surgical leaders, the meeting offers a broad range of clinical and nonclinical programming tailored to the challenges shaping modern surgical practice. 

The July/August Bulletin cover article includes an in-depth preview of the conference, but you can learn about the highlights here.

New this year are the Best of Grand Rounds Series and dedicated Clinical Informatics and AI Sessions, providing timely discussions on leadership, resilience, emerging technologies, artificial intelligence, and the future of surgery. 

Attendees also will hear from internationally recognized speakers during the Named Lectures, including Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson of the Supreme Court of the United States. Additional special lectures from National Academy of Medicine President Monica M. Bertagnolli, MD, FACS, and former FDA Commissioner Martin Makary, MD, MPH, FACS, will provide high-level healthcare insights from seasoned leaders.

Clinical Congress also will offer comprehensive, specialty-specific education alongside multidisciplinary sessions relevant to all surgeons. Topics range from surgical site infections, telesurgery, and difficult clinical decision-making to workforce challenges, advocacy, sustainability, burnout, and professional autonomy. 

New networking opportunities—including specialty-specific coffee sessions—are designed to help surgeons build collaborations, reconnect with colleagues, and expand their professional networks.

With a redesigned program, flexible scheduling, and content spanning clinical excellence, innovation, leadership, and advocacy, Clinical Congress 2026 offers an unparalleled opportunity to gain immediately applicable knowledge while helping shape the future of surgery. 

For surgeons seeking education that extends beyond their specialty and connections that can influence their careers, this year's meeting is one not to miss. Register by August 10 to receive the early bird registration discount.