Countdown Begins for ACC.26 in New Orleans

From career-making connections to can't-miss conversations, the stage is set for ACC.26 to deliver the best in science, innovation and community engagement.

Published on Mar. 3, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The American College of Cardiology's Annual Scientific Session, ACC.26, is set to take place in New Orleans from March 28-30, 2026. The conference will feature a wide range of educational and networking opportunities, including immersive learning experiences, expert-led discussions, and the debut of groundbreaking clinical research. Highlights include the Personalized Skills Zone, 'Meet the Experts' sessions, an AI-focused intensive, and a crowd-sourced session on concierge and direct reimbursement models.

Why it matters

ACC.26 is a premier event for cardiovascular professionals, bringing together experts from around the world to share the latest advancements in science, technology, and patient care. The conference provides a platform for collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and professional development, ultimately driving progress in the field of cardiology and improving outcomes for patients.

The details

ACC.26 will feature a range of interactive and immersive learning opportunities, including simulation stations for cardiac and pulmonary POCUS, cardiopulmonary exercise testing, transvenous pacing, and more. Attendees can also participate in the STEMI Smackdown competition and an Escape Room challenge. The conference will also host 'Meet the Trialists' and 'Meet the Experts' sessions, allowing for in-depth discussions with faculty, guideline authors, and other industry leaders. Additionally, the AI Intensive will explore practical implementation of AI in patient care, as well as approaches to AI financing and governance.

  • ACC.26 will take place from March 28-30, 2026 in New Orleans, Louisiana.
  • The Opening Showcase and first LBCT session will kick off the conference on Saturday, March 28.
  • The Closing Ceremony and Convocation will conclude the event on Monday, March 30.

The players

Katie Berlacher, MD, MS, FACC

Chair of the ACC.26 Annual Scientific Session Program Committee.

Julie Damp, MD, FACC

Vice Chair of the ACC.26 Annual Scientific Session Program Committee.

Kristen Campbell, PharmD, CPP, FACC

CV Team Lead for the ACC.26 Annual Scientific Session Program Committee.

Roxana Mehran, MD, FACC

Incoming President of the American College of Cardiology.

Harvey J. White Jr., MD, FACC

ACC member and donor who has provided a $25,000 matching gift to support educational travel grants for up-and-coming cardiovascular professionals.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“New Orleans is known for its heart, its rhythm and its deep sense of community and it's especially fitting that the ACC will be there, carrying forward the legacy of connection and innovation that defines both the city and our Annual Scientific Session.”

— Katie Berlacher, MD, MS, FACC, ACC Scientific Session Chair (acc.org)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, Grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

ACC.26 promises to be a transformative event, bringing together the brightest minds in cardiovascular care to share groundbreaking research, innovative technologies, and best practices that will shape the future of the field. The conference's focus on immersive learning, expert-led discussions, and community engagement underscores the ACC's commitment to advancing the profession and improving patient outcomes.