The global healthcare system is facing serious challenges, even as technology plays a key role in it. The sector is in dire need of more workers, which, according to the World Health Organization, could reach 11 million by 2030. Private and public health systems must improve care delivery and address disparities in access, particularly in low- to middle-income countries.
Healthcare conferences occur annually when different organizations gather to examine the most critical healthcare problems. The future of healthcare will be discussed at this event which will showcase ongoing health tech and life sciences industry developments. Your presence at these 2026 events along with your networking abilities will determine whether your business will expand or face difficulties during this period of development.
Healthcare Events You Shouldn’t Miss
These are the essential healthcare networking events to mark in your 2026 calendar:
The Health Management Academy Executive Convening Forums (2026)
The Health Management Academy (THMA) conducts multiple Executive Convening Forums, which require invitations and run throughout the year to serve senior healthcare executives and specific industry partners. The forums focus on establishing connections through in-depth discussions while building relationships between participants who share similar professional backgrounds.
When: Multiple dates throughout 2026 (Spring and Fall Forums across executive roles)
Where: Various U.S. locations
What to expect: THMA’s Executive Convenings bring together health system C-suite executives alongside a carefully curated group of industry leaders in closed-door, peer-driven sessions. Forums are organized by executive roles, such as CFOs, COOs, CIOs, Chief Growth Officers, and service line leaders, ensuring conversations remain highly relevant and grounded in real operational and financial challenges.
Attendance is restricted because the event requires a specific health-system-to-industry ratio which enables participants to have meaningful dialogues while sharing their authentic insights and building relationships that last. The programming combines facilitated discussions with executive roundtables and informal networking activities which create an environment for trust development instead of business-focused exchanges.
Who it’s best for: Senior healthcare executives and industry leaders who value meaningful access over volume, and who are focused on building informed, long-term partnerships with health system decision-makers in the U.S. market.
ViVE 2026
With over 9,000 attendees, this event offers numerous networking opportunities for individuals in the digital health sector.
When: February 22-25, 2026
Where: Los Angeles Convention Center, California
What to expect: Unlike traditional conferences, this one has a tech-forward vibe. Expect to find many C-suite executives and digital health startup founders discussing the hurdles and opportunities in achieving digital maturity, innovative solutions, and everything in between. The Patient Experience Insights Program will be launched this year with the hopes of incorporating patients’ perspectives in every tech solution.
Who it’s best for: If your focus is on optimizing the business side of digital healthcare, this is for you.
HIMSS26 Global Health Conference and Exhibition
HIMSS is one of the biggest global healthcare gatherings. It covers a wide range of topics that bring together health executives and clinicians from the private and public sectors in the US and other parts of the world.
When: March 09-12, 2026
Where: The Venetian Convention & Expo Center, Las Vegas, Nevada
What to expect: By hosting meaningful interactions, organizers are hoping to surpass the 25,000 attendees last year, which isn’t at all surprising with the digital health boom.
Experts predict the sector’s revenues to reach USD$ 549.7 billion by 2028, reflecting a cumulative growth of 25% from 2023 up to the said period. Many owe this growth to artificial intelligence (AI) integrations, which enable startups to build digital solutions at an unprecedented pace.
Investors and start-up pitches happen during the Emerge Experience. Business and organization leaders will find the Executive Summit a great learning experience, while vendors can rub elbows with their prospects during the Hosted Buyer Program.
Who it’s best for: Healthcare providers who want to see the scale of global digital health transformation. You can curate your experience through their pre-conference forums.
RISE National 2026
Even as it celebrates its 20th year, RISE continues to attract care organizations, practitioners, pharmaceutical industry players, and more. Here, they discuss the challenges and innovations in healthcare delivery.
When: March 23-25, 2026
Where: Orlando World Center Marriott, Florida
What to expect: One of RISE National’s priorities is operational efficiency. This year’s participants will discuss how to do more with less in the New Lean Methodology Workshop. Moreover, experts will discuss the regulatory changes to the Medicaid program, alongside coordinating Medicare Advantage benefits for better patient experience.
Who it’s best for: Mid-to-senior level executives who live and breathe risk management and health insurance plans, and are seeking to meet thought leaders and policy influencers.
World Health Expo Miami 2026 (formerly FIME)
More than 120 countries and 1,300 exhibitors, plus thousands of healthcare professionals, are set to discuss opportunities that drive advancements in the industry.
When: June 17-19, 2026
Where: Miami Beach Convention Center, Florida
What to expect: Its recent rebranding has expanded the show’s scope. You’ll discover breakthroughs in health tech and learning opportunities in the fields of AI, cybersecurity, policy, and population health. Even so, it remains the premier destination for connecting with North and South American medical device distributors and manufacturers.
Who it’s best for: Business leaders and healthcare practitioners in medical technology and healthcare solutions. Here, you can build a stronger supply chain and find partners in neighboring countries without leaving the US.
HLTH US 2026
Vendors, payers, and providers will have the opportunity to discuss and address overall health challenges and their solutions before the year ends.
When: November 15-18, 2026
Where: The Venetian Expo Center, Las Vegas, Nevada
What to expect: The event boasts over 12,000 attendees from various healthcare fields. While investors and startups have their place, the gathering will feel less like a trade show and more like a summit. Panel discussions will focus on emerging technologies, advanced diagnostics, and precision medicine. The floor is also open to less popular topics, like employer and workforce health, substance use, and nutrition science.
Who it’s best for: Clinicians and healthcare executives who want to know the trends that will shape the sector in 2027 and beyond. You’ll also have opportunities to secure strategic partnerships at this event.
Moreover, the HLTH Europe 2026 will happen months prior, on June 15-18 in Amsterdam. It’s worth participating in if you’re interested in cross-border collaboration or are already doing business in the region.
Final Thoughts
Plan your year strategically by attending at least one large-scale event and smaller, more specialized meetings. Spread your attendance across different events to diversify your network while staying ahead of trends. More importantly, think beyond the US healthcare system to add depth to your networking experience.
link