Jess Mandel, MD

By Jess Mandel, MD

International Conference Committee Chair

Welcome to ATS 2018, the intellectual crossroads of pulmonary, critical care, and sleep medicine!

The first ATS conference was held 114 years ago, and over the years, the conference has earned a reputation for presenting the best science and the latest clinical advances in respiratory medicine. This year’s sessions and speakers will build upon that tradition.

From thought-provoking keynote addresses and major symposia to year-in-review courses and case conferences, ATS 2018 has been programmed to help each attendee stay at the forefront of his or her profession—whether you are a physician or a nurse, a basic or translational researcher, a public health expert, medical educator, or full-time clinician.

The conference’s more than 500 sessions will be led by some of the foremost experts in pulmonary, critical care, and sleep medicine from around the world. Sometimes you will find that these speakers’ expertise transcends respiratory medicine, while offering critical insights into it. Other times, you will be listening to a “lion(ess)” of respiratory medicine with multiple landmark studies to his or her name. Or you may just meet, as many attendees have, an early career investigator whose research helps advance your own longstanding interest in the same area.

Wherever you go this week at ATS 2018, you’ll be presented with learning opportunities that only a “live” educational program can offer. You’ll be able to ask questions of presenters, discuss what you’ve learned with friends and colleagues, and build a network of professional contacts you can call upon when you’re faced with a challenging case or research question.

You’ll also benefit from a vibrant Exhibit Hall, where you can learn about cutting-edge diagnostics and therapies, often through new visual modalities such as virtual reality.

Over the years, one of the things I’ve come to admire most about the ATS International Conference is the unpretentious and approachable tone set by attendees and presenters.  Although you will learn a lot of important things at ATS 2018 just by listening, I urge you to take full advantage of this open, collaborative culture by joining some of the thousands of conversations about the future of pulmonary, critical care, and sleep medicine that take place during the conference.

I have left every ATS International Conference feeling excited and rejuvenated by all aspects of the meeting, including those side conversations and what they may mean for patients. I hope you experience the same feelings from your week here.

Enjoy the conference!