The American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists (the Academy) announced that the 2021 Academy Annual Meeting & Scientific Symposium will be presented virtually for the safety and well-being of all. The event will be held May 4-7 and will include live streaming, recorded content, product demonstrations, and virtual networking.
Registration will open in February.
JoAnne Kanas, DPT, CPO, Academy vice-president, and chair of the Academy Exhibit Committee, said the Academy spent 2020 gathering information and listening to members’ thoughts, ideas, and concerns surrounding showcasing O&P products and services during the pandemic.
Based on the feedback, there will not be a virtual exhibit hall at the Annual Meeting. Instead, for those who have investments in exhibit tables, booths, and sponsorships that no longer fit within the virtual setting, they can be forwarded to the 2022 Academy Annual Meeting & Scientific Symposium, which will be held March 2-5, 2022, in Atlanta.
The Academy will also help its partners and exhibitors reach their customers through education opportunities. The 2021 Technical Workshops and Product Display Showcases will go on as planned, albeit virtually. New Clinical Techniques sessions and commercial breaks will be offered for additional customer access. These opportunities will be live and recorded, then featured on the ExperienceAAOP2021 Learning Channel on the Academy’s Online Learning Center.
Kanas said the Academy is working on a menu of meaningful engagement opportunities based on the feedback they received.
