Schedule of Events

Thursday, November 13, 2025
Movement Disorders and Epilepsy

Welcome

General Session
Overview of Level 4 Epilepsy Center and Parkinson Certifications
Dr. Jennifer DeWolf
University of Alabama at Birmingham
This session provides an overview of Level 4 Epilepsy Centers and Parkinson's Disease certifications, exploring the specialized resources and advanced care they offer. Learn about the rigorous requirements for achieving these designations, including specialized staff, advanced diagnostic technologies, and comprehensive treatment options. Discover how these centers provide a higher level of coordinated and individualized care for patients with epilepsy and Parkinson's disease, leading to improved outcomes and a better quality of life.

General Session
Team Approach to Movement Disorder Program
Dr. Fernando Vale
University of Alabama at Birmingham
This session explores the collaborative team approach essential for a successful Movement Disorder Program. Learn how neurologists, neurosurgeons, neuropsychologists, therapists, and other specialists work together to provide comprehensive and individualized care for patients with movement disorders. The session will highlight the benefits of this interdisciplinary model, including improved diagnostic accuracy, personalized treatment plans, and enhanced patient outcomes. Discover how this team approach addresses the complex medical, physical, and psychosocial needs of individuals living with Parkinson's disease, essential tremor, dystonia, and other movement disorders.

Break with Exhibitors

General Session
Creating an Excellent DBS Program
Dr. Bentley, Dr. Holland, Dr. Thum and Dr. Ilyas
University of Alabama at Birmingham
This session focuses on the key elements required for creating and maintaining a successful Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) program. Attendees will learn about the crucial components involved, including patient selection criteria, the surgical procedure, programming and management of the DBS device, and the importance of a multidisciplinary team approach. The session will also address challenges and solutions in building a thriving DBS program, highlighting best practices for optimizing patient outcomes and ensuring long-term success. Finally, the discussion will explore the future of DBS and emerging technologies in the field.

Friday, November 14, 2025
Stroke Program

Breakfast with Exhibitors

Welcome

General Session
Stroke Strategy Overview
Kate Zenter, SG2
This session provides a timely update on the evolving landscape of stroke care strategy. Attendees will gain insights into the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the future of stroke programs. The session will cover key areas such as advancements in acute stroke treatment, evolving reimbursement models, the impact of telehealth and technology, and the growing emphasis on population health management. Furthermore, the session will explore innovative approaches to stroke care delivery, including new models of care coordination and strategies for improving patient outcomes across the continuum of care. Participants will leave with a clearer understanding of the dynamic forces shaping stroke care and practical strategies for adapting and thriving in this evolving environment.

Break with Exhibitors

General Session
Overview of a Comprehensive Stroke Center
Dr. Mark Harrigan; Jill Stewart, RN; and Toby Gropen
University of Alabama at Birmingham
This session provides a wholistic overview of a Comprehensive Stroke Center, highlighting the key components and resources that differentiate it from other stroke care facilities. Attendees will learn about the rigorous requirements for achieving this designation, including the availability of specialized stroke neurologists, neurosurgeons, and other healthcare professionals, advanced imaging capabilities, and 24/7 availability of crucial interventions like thrombectomy. The session will also explore the importance of a coordinated, multidisciplinary approach to stroke care, emphasizing the critical role of rapid diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation in optimizing patient outcomes and minimizing long-term disability.

UAB Tour: Angio Suites and Clinic

Lunch with Exhibitors

General Session
Telestroke
Richard Temes, Northwell
This session explores the innovative approach of telestroke, a technology-enabled model of stroke care that extends expert stroke expertise to remote or underserved areas. Attendees will learn how telestroke leverages telecommunications technology to connect stroke patients with remote stroke specialists, enabling rapid diagnosis and treatment decisions, including the administration of time-sensitive therapies like thrombolysis. The session will cover the key components of a successful telestroke program, including the technology infrastructure, the roles and responsibilities of the various healthcare professionals involved, and the importance of standardized protocols. Furthermore, the discussion will address the benefits and challenges of implementing telestroke programs, such as improving access to care, reducing treatment delays, and enhancing patient outcomes in areas with limited access to specialized stroke expertise. Finally, the session will touch on the future of telestroke and the potential impact of emerging technologies on expanding access to timely and effective stroke care.

General Session
Stroke Panel Discussion
Meredith Wells, Neuoscience/Assension
This panel discussion brings together stroke experts from diverse backgrounds—private practice, hospital systems, and academic medical centers—to explore the varied organizational structures of stroke programs. Attendees will gain insights into the different models for delivering stroke care, including their strengths, weaknesses, and unique challenges. The panelists will share their experiences and perspectives on topics such as staffing models, resource allocation, technology integration, and the role of interdisciplinary collaboration. This interactive session will offer a valuable opportunity to learn from different approaches and consider best practices for organizing and optimizing stroke programs to improve patient outcomes.

General Session
What's Next: The Future of Stroke Care
Dan Victor Giurgiutiu, MD
Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University
This session explores the exciting future of stroke care, examining emerging trends and innovations poised to transform the field. Attendees will learn about cutting-edge advancements in stroke prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation, including new medications, innovative technologies, and evolving models of care. The session will delve into topics such as artificial intelligence, telehealth, robotics, and personalized medicine, discussing their potential to improve patient outcomes and revolutionize stroke care delivery. Furthermore, the session will address the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, offering a glimpse into the future landscape of stroke care and its potential to significantly reduce the burden of stroke worldwide.

Close and Exhibitor Teardown