About the Forum
A Dynamic Forum at the Intersection of Science, Strategy, and Access
The ASPN Pain & Policy Innovation Forum 2026 is the first of its kind — a dynamic, interactive forum exploring how scientific discovery, regulatory strategy, and reimbursement pathways come together to shape the future of pain medicine.
This half-day session brings together clinicians, researchers, policymakers, and innovators to focus on one central question:
“How do we move innovation from concept to real-world patient access?”
Through expert-led sessions, interactive discussions, and forward-looking insights, attendees will gain practical strategies to navigate the evolving landscape of evidence generation, policy, and clinical adoption.
Program Overview
What You’ll Experience
Thursday, July 16, 2026 · 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
01 Regulatory
Regulatory & Data Deep Dive
What does the FDA actually expect — and how can clinicians and innovators align with it? Explore the real challenges in data collection, standardization, and translating research into practice.
02 Emerging Science
Frontiers in Pain Science — TED-Style Talks
Fast-paced, high-impact presentations on emerging science shaping the field:
- CRISPR and gene-based approaches to pain
- Optogenetics and neural circuit precision
- Closed-loop neuromodulation and adaptive therapies
- Next-generation therapeutics, including HIFU and novel targets
03 Discussion
Interactive Faculty Q&A
A moderated discussion connecting basic science, clinical care, and commercialization — with direct audience engagement and real-world application.
04 Advocacy
ASPN Alliance & Advocacy Update
Gain insight into ASPN’s work in policy, reimbursement, and advocacy — including coverage frameworks and efforts to improve access to evidence-based therapies.
05 Collaboration
Collaboration Forum — Knowledge Café
An interactive, small-group session focused on industry–society–academia partnerships. Explore how collaboration can accelerate innovation — and where challenges still exist.
06 Policy
Policy Roundtable
A timely discussion on the policies shaping your practice:
- Prior authorization reform
- Medicare Advantage updates (2027)
- WiSER model (2026)
- Value-based care in the ASC setting
07 Innovation
Innovator’s Prescription
A solutions-focused session on how to bring ideas to life — from innovation to reimbursement and adoption. Learn practical strategies for navigating the path from concept to clinical impact.
08 Community
Town Hall: Open Innovation Forum
An interactive, audience-driven session to identify future priorities in research, policy, and innovation.
Your voice helps shape what comes next.
Program Leadership
Join the Leading Voices in Pain Medicine
Chair
Krishnan Chakravarthy, MD, PhD
President of ASPN
Co-Chair
Hemant Kalia, MD
Vice President of Policy
Organizing Committee
Kai McGreevy, MD
Organizing Committee
Eugene Wang, MD
Core Focus Areas
What You’ll Experience
Innovation → Adoption → Reimbursement
The full pathway from concept to patient access
Real-World Evidence & Data Strategy
Building the evidence base that moves policy
Policy, Access, and Coverage
Navigating payer and regulatory landscapes
Emerging Science & Translational Research
From bench to bedside to reimbursement
AI, Data, and the Future of Pain Care
Technology as a driver of clinical transformation
Collaboration Across the Ecosystem
Industry, academia, and societies — together
Why Attend
Actionable Insights.
Direct from the Leaders Shaping the Field.
Format
Half-Day Breakout Session
Interactive. Engaging. Designed for real dialogue.
Date & Time
Thursday, July 16, 2026
1:00 PM – 4:00 PM · ASPN Annual Meeting
Designation
Non-CME
Open to all registered ASPN Annual Meeting attendees