Last week, Boston proudly hosted the largest Annual Meeting of the Society of General Internal Medicine (SGIM)on record. Dr. Zirui Song, Associate Professor of Health Care Policy and Medicine at Harvard Medical School and general internist at MGH, led the event as Chair, with Co-Chair Dr. Jennifer Schmidt of Washington University in St. Louis and a dedicated Program Committee. Together, they crafted a robust program that addressed a wide range of pressing health care challenges.
The meeting's theme, "Strengthening Relationships and Valuing Our Diversity," underscored its the Society’s commitment to fostering collaboration and connection among a diverse group of health care professionals. The meeting also featured an advocacy theme of reducing the burden of firearm injuries, focused on clinical interviewing and counseling skills around firearm safety for patients and families.
The record 2,878 attendees were offered a variety of clinical, scientific, policy, and educational sessions. The program was constructed through a peer review process involving record high submissions. From trainees, clinicians, educators, and health care leaders across the country, submissions included 944 clinical vignettes, 816 scientific abstracts, 352 workshops, 432 innovations in medical education or care delivery, 78 special symposia, 71 interest groups, and 27 clinical updates. Attendees could also choose from among multiple pre-courses, mentoring panels, distinguished professor keynotes, exhibits, and affiliated events.
The event also celebrated exceptional contributions in research. Professor of Health Care Policy, Bruce Landon, received the prestigious John Eisenberg Award for Career Achievement in Research, in recognition of his outstanding work. Additionally, the conference proudly featured presentations from HCP post-doctoral researchers Annabel Wang (plenary presentation) and Rebecca Bromley-Dulfano(oral abstract presentation).
For over three decades, SGIM has been a leading force in academic internal medicine. This global organization, with over 3,300 general internists, is dedicated to improving health care delivery for all. Through research, education, and clinical practice, they strive to promote equitable and ethical care, alongside effective research. Ultimately, their mission is to lead the way towards better health outcomes and cost-effective solutions.
Congratulations to Dr. Song, Dr. Schmidt, the Program Committee, and all of the award winners for the success of this year's SGIM Annual Meeting!