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PVA's 2026 Healthcare Summit + Expo: A Landmark Event in Veterans' Care

The Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) recently launched its highly anticipated 2026 Healthcare Summit + Expo at the Horseshoe Hotel in Las Vegas. This grand event has gathered over 400 healthcare professionals across the United States, all focused on advancing the quality of care for individuals with spinal cord injuries, multiple sclerosis (MS), and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

A Platform for Change

Kicking off on August 30 with a welcome reception, the summit evolved into an insightful event featuring more than 110 speakers, 60 exhibitors, and critical discussions among top experts in the field. Notably, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins addressed participants, emphasizing the government's commitment to enhancing healthcare for veterans.

Robert Thomas, a U.S. Army veteran and national president of PVA, articulated the summit's mission: "Healthcare doesn’t start or end when veterans with traumatic spinal cord injuries and diseases enter or leave the hospital. It begins well before injury or diagnosis… in research and at the lab, and it continues well afterwards when they return home." This focus highlights the summit's goal of highlighting work in research and the practical aspects of rehabilitation following severe injuries.

Advancements Through Collaboration

During the event, discussions will revolve around groundbreaking research, the evaluation of new technologies, sharing of medical breakthroughs, and strategies to strengthen care for veterans and individuals suffering from spinal cord injuries, MS, and ALS. As PVA's mission has evolved over its 80-year history, the summit serves as a crucial platform for fostering collaboration among clinicians and researchers who are passionate about making a difference.

Lindsay Perlman, Director of PVA’s Research and Education Department, stated, "People living with spinal cord injuries, MS, and ALS deserve care that keeps pace with the latest advances." Her insights emphasize the need for healthcare providers to remain current in medical advancements to deliver effective patient care.

Honoring Excellence in Care

On September 2, the summit will celebrate the exceptional work of six remarkable clinicians with the Clinical Excellence Awards. These distinguished healthcare professionals represent the best in their fields, showcasing dedication and innovation in treating patients with spinal cord injuries and related diseases. The honorees include:

• - Marinella Galea, MD: Chief of Spinal Cord Injury and Disorders at the James J. Peters VA Medical Center, lauded for advancing specialized care and research.
• - Nicholas Wendel, PT: Recognized for employing evidence-based rehabilitation techniques to enhance veterans’ mobility.
• - Beth Whittington, MD: Telehealth innovator known for improving access to ALS care across remote areas.
• - Ginger Willoughby, RN: Inpatient Nurse Care Coordinator focusing on quality improvement within her practice.
• - Felicia Skelton, MD: A prominent researcher whose work has propelled advancements in primary care for spinal cord injury patients.
• - Liam Kiernan, PT: Clinical Speciality Physical Therapist integrating advanced technologies in rehabilitation programs.

These clinicians exemplify the commitment necessary to provide compassionate and effective care for veterans and others living with disabilities.

PVA's Ongoing Commitment

PVA has pioneered specialized spinal cord injury care since its inception in 1946, ensuring veterans receive necessary benefits and overseeing their treatment in VA spines unit. The organization continues to invest in research, education, and advocacy for improved care and accessibility. Sponsorships from corporate partners emphasize the community's commitment to this cause, with names like Biogen, Genentech, and Novartis leading the charge.

The 2026 Healthcare Summit + Expo stands as a beacon of collaboration, innovation, and unwavering devotion to enhancing healthcare for those living with spinal cord injuries, MS, and ALS. To learn more about this significant event, visit SummitPVA.org.

PVA is dedicated to serving veterans and their families across the nation, embodying the spirit of advocacy and accessibility for all individuals with disabilities. Join us in supporting this essential work, ensuring that veterans and their caregivers have the resources needed for optimal care and empowerment.