CEO Update, September 2026

“One of the marvelous things about community is that it enables us to welcome and help people in a way we couldn’t as individuals.”  Jean Vanier

Maybe it is just me, but it seems people are craving community more than ever. Is it the post COVID effect? Is it the need to find a source of like-minded folks who can share and understand your challenges, success, and experience? There is something to the empathy factor. 

Maybe it is just an unexpected positive result in shifting to a hybrid format. Just off the heels of our 2026 Annual Meeting, folks seemed genuinely happy, engaged, and inclusive.  (You can still leverage your “free” member benefit and register to access the virtual content and meet your CME/continuing certification needs!)

I cannot help but reflect on the comradery in Tucson. Members saw it too. Early feedback highlights some of what makes the AAOA Annual Meeting impactful.

“Every year I attend, and I am amazed by the additional subjects that are clinically relevant to ENT and allergy.”

“I really liked the format. The panel discussions are a definite strong part of the learning process. Also case presentations are excellent as well.”

“I enjoyed the information on the posterior nerve ablation and the potential benefit for migraine. I see a lot of overlap in my practice with migraine and “sinus”. Great topic!”

“The allergy challenging cases were really good- made me consider some ideas I had not really considered or known before.”

“Particularly enjoyed the session involving TikTok trends.”

“Beyond Saline: Adjuncts in Nasal Rinse Therapy was impactful”

“The Work flow efficiency lecture was excellent and gave me some specific ideas about how to improve work flow. I have been resistant to using APP in my practice but the idea of working at the “highest level” of your license was a new concept.  It’s certainly worth a consideration.”

“Health and Tech Literacy – Fantastic talk about the struggles of dealing with educated patients. His examples of how to talk and deal with these families – phrases/question to use were particularly helpful.”

“Probably the presentation on MABs. Particularly clinically relevant for me and most likely to be something I implement in my office immediately.”

“Ergonomics — It’s not often discussed, so I liked it.”

“Helped change the significant portion of my practice by thinking of and treating migraines more frequently.”

The feedback is tremendous and rewarding. Our Annual Meeting Task Force strives to deliver content that really packs a punch, sharing take aways you can implement. This success already has our wheels turning for next year.

What would make 2027 in Charleston a not-to-be-missed program for you?  Share your ideas on content you would love to explore with your peers. Use our Call for Proposals link to share your ideas. Charleston promises to be a great back drop, and a great place to bring back our Content Meets Culture tours.

Thank you for your engagement! You are the AAOA community and help drive our culture!