Get Involved in PainConnect 2026: What’s Open & What’s New
PainConnect 2026 is returning to Salt Lake City, Utah, from March 5–8, 2026, and we’re excited to share several important ways you can get involved right now. Whether you’re an early-career fellow, a seasoned clinician, a researcher, or an innovator, there’s an opportunity for you to contribute, connect, and be recognized.
Here’s your roundup of what’s open and what’s coming soon as we prepare for the Academy’s premier meeting.
📄 Late-Breaking Abstracts
Have new data or a recent case series you’re ready to share? AAPM is now accepting late-breaking abstract submissions for PainConnect 2026. This opportunity is ideal for projects with time-sensitive findings, new research directions, or innovative approaches to multidisciplinary pain care.
Accepted abstracts will be featured in our scientific poster sessions, providing a platform to engage with leading voices in pain medicine. Submission deadlines and formatting instructions are posted on the PainConnect Abstracts Page, and space is limited; submit early to ensure consideration.
🏆 2026 AAPM Awards – Nominations Now Open
The AAPM Awards Program honors leaders across the field of pain medicine. From clinical excellence and education to advocacy and international impact, these prestigious awards shine a light on individuals who are moving the specialty forward.
Award categories include:
- Founders Award
- Presidential Excellence Award for Education
- Distinguished Service Award
- Lippe Award for Social Impact
- Patient Advocacy Award
- Addison Award for Global Collaboration
- Pain Medicine Journal Award
Deadline: January 5, 2026
Award recipients will be recognized at the PainConnect 2026 Saturday Night Awards Gala, one of the most anticipated events of the meeting.
🩺 Pain Fellowship Excellence Award – Apply by Dec 19
Is your program redefining fellowship education? AAPM invites submissions for the Pain Medicine Fellowship Excellence Award, which honors an ACGME-accredited program that demonstrates excellence in:
- Clinical training and mentorship
- Interdisciplinary and patient-centered care
- Scholarship and educational innovation
- Professional culture and wellness
The selected program will be recognized at PainConnect 2026, featured on the AAPM and PainConnect websites, and spotlighted during the Fellows Reception.
Submission Deadline: December 19, 2025
💡 Innovation Challenge – Submissions Still Open
The AAPM Innovation Challenge, presented in partnership with MIT Hacking Medicine, is now accepting submissions. This program empowers healthcare innovators, clinicians, engineers, and entrepreneurs to develop solutions that can transform the future of pain care.
Selected finalists will present live at PainConnect 2026, gaining exposure, mentorship, and a chance to receive implementation support. Submissions can span clinical tools, digital health solutions, AI applications, or care delivery models that improve access, equity, or outcomes in pain medicine.
This is where bold ideas meet real-world impact. Don’t miss your chance to pitch.
Submit to the Innovation Challenge →
🧠 Hacking Pain: Hack-a-thon Returns in 2026
The Hacking Pain Hack-a-thon is back! This unique, team-based event brings together clinicians, designers, engineers, and patient advocates to rapidly co-create tools that address gaps in pain care. Whether you’re building apps, designing hardware, or rethinking care pathways, this is your place to collaborate across disciplines.
Registration opens December 15, 2025
Hosted in collaboration with the Center for Medical Innovation at the University of Utah, the event takes place on-site at PainConnect and culminates in live pitches and judging. It’s fast, fun, and filled with innovation. Teams will be formed from students studying medicine, engineering, marketing, and more.
🎟 Early Registration for PainConnect 2026 Is Open
Secure your spot for PainConnect 2026 now and take advantage of early registration rates. The meeting will be held at the Grand America Hotel in Salt Lake City, UT, a favorite venue for immersive learning, networking, and team-building.
✔️ Hands-on interventional sessions
✔️ Keynotes and symposia on multidisciplinary care
✔️ Fellow-focused events and mentor meetups
✔️ Innovation and research showcases
Join the American Academy of Pain Medicine and save on your registration fee. Learn more.
