W. Montague Cobb Health Disparities Symposium

 Bridging the Gap: Advancing Equity in Education, Research, and Healthcare

Agenda subject to change

Friday, January 23, 2026 - Opening Reception & Fireside Conversation (5:30pm - 7:30pm)

An evening networking reception featuring a Fireside Chat on healthcare disparities in chronic disease management.

Supported in part by the American Diabetes Association..

Saturday, January 24, 2026 (7:00 am - 1:00 pm)

The W. Montague Cobb Institute Health Disparities Symposium is a half-day educational program designed to bring together physicians, residents, medical students, researchers, and healthcare professionals committed to advancing health equity across education, clinical research, and patient care.

Hosted in partnership with Howard University Hospital, the symposium will examine systemic inequities in healthcare delivery, access to emerging treatments, the role of technology and artificial intelligence in care, and evolving approaches to medical education. Through expert-led panel discussions, case studies, and interactive dialogue, participants will gain insights into strategies that support equitable outcomes for underserved and underrepresented populations.

Continuing Medical Education (CME)

This activity is designed for physicians and other healthcare professionals. CME credit will be available for eligible participants. Attendees seeking CME credit must register under the CME registration category and complete all required attendance and evaluation requirements.

Program Agenda

7:00 AM – 7:30 AM | Registration & Breakfast
Check-in and light breakfast while visiting early exhibitor tables.

7:30 AM – 8:00 AM | Welcome & Opening Remarks
Overview of the day’s program and objectives.

Morning Session: Clinical Research & Chronic Diseases
8:00 AM – 9:45 AM | Panel Discussions & Presentations
This session will explore:

• Equitable access to emerging therapies and treatment options

• Medicaid and Medicare considerations in chronic disease management

• The role of artificial intelligence in clinical care

• Addressing disparities in technology-driven healthcare delivery

• Opportunities and challenges of AI in diagnosis, training, and patient outcomes

9:45 AM – 10:15 AM | Networking Break & Exhibitor Visits
Refreshments and time to engage with exhibitors and partners.

Midday Session: Medical Education
10:15 AM – 12:00 PM | Panel Discussions & Case Studies
Topics include:

• Evolving models in medical education

• Aligning curricula and clinical training with future healthcare needs

• Data-driven perspectives on disparities in medical education

• Preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals for equitable care delivery

12:00 PM – 12:30 PM | Lunch & Exhibitor Networking
Lunch provided with continued exhibitor engagement.

Fireside Chat: Helping Predict the Future
12:30 PM – 2:00 PM
Medical Students and Residents Only
An interactive discussion focused on forecasting trends in research, technology, policy, and innovation shaping the future of healthcare.

This educational program is supported, in part, by the American Diabetes Association.

Registration Information

• Complimentary registration available (limited capacity)

• Paid registration available for CME credit

• Separate registration is required for the Friday Evening Reception

This symposium honors the legacy of Dr. W. Montague Cobb by fostering informed dialogue, collaboration, and action toward achieving equity in healthcare and medical education.