Guide to AHRA 2026

Guide to the AHRA Annual Meeting

Where Imaging Meets Imagination

The annual meeting of AHRA: The Association for Medical Imaging Management has long been a cornerstone event for imaging leaders seeking education, professional development and networking opportunities. In 2026, the meeting takes on added significance with a new partnership designed to broaden perspectives across the imaging care continuum.

Set for July 12-15, 2026, at the Orlando World Center Marriott in Orlando, Florida, the AHRA Annual Meeting will bring together imaging administrators, radiology leaders, clinicians, educators and industry partners for four days of learning, collaboration and innovation. This year the theme is “Where Imaging Meets Imagination.” The theme underscores the event’s focus on forward-thinking strategies and practical solutions that support high-quality patient care.

One highlight of the 2026 meeting is AHRA’s collaboration with the Association for Radiologic & Imaging Nursing (ARIN), marking a significant step toward interdisciplinary engagement within medical imaging. The partnership introduces new programming and expanded opportunities for collaboration between imaging leaders and imaging nurses, reinforcing the shared goal of delivering safe, efficient and patient-centered care.

Michelle Dossa, director, department of imaging services at University Hospitals Elyria Medical Center, is a longtime attendee who applauds the annual event for many reasons.

“The AHRA Annual Meeting brings together imaging professionals from a wide variety of backgrounds and healthcare organizations (administrators, managers, clinical leaders, imaging nurses, and vendor partners) to focus on leadership development, operational excellence, patient care, and the future of medical imaging,” Dossa explains. “Attendees have a unique opportunity to learn from industry thought leaders, earn continuing education credits in a variety of imaging topics and innovative ideas, and build relationships with industry peers to support your clinical and operational success. It is also a great opportunity to learn more about AHRA, what it does for us and our imaging industry, and how you can become involved in its great work.”

Dossa listed her top three reasons to attend the AHRA Annual Meeting as follows:

• High-value education and leadership development: The Annual Meeting offers high-quality, practical education addressing real-world challenges facing imaging leaders, including workforce development, quality, compliance, technology integration and patient-centered care. The sessions provide actionable strategies that can be immediately applied within imaging departments.
• Relationship building with peers, clinical leaders and vendor partners: One of the greatest strengths of the AHRA Annual Meeting is the opportunity to build meaningful relationships across radiology. Attendees can collaborate with fellow imaging leaders and clinical partners while also engaging directly with vendor partners. AHRA activities outside of the education sessions and exhibit hall are also a great way to get to know individuals who are committed to our industry as much as you are. These connections build trust, shared learning and long-term friendships that support your operational and clinical success.
• Exposure to innovation and future trends in imaging: Through its educational sessions and the exhibit hall vendors, attendees gain firsthand exposure to new technologies, workflow solutions and strategic insights. The exhibit hall is one of the best parts of AHRA and spending time there has resulted in several outstanding vendor relationships.

Traci Foster, FAHRA, CRA, MSRS, RT(R), is the director of outpatient imaging with Memorial Hermann Healthcare System’s Ambulatory Services Outpatient Imaging Division. She encourages everyone within diagnostic imaging to attend the AHRA Annual Meeting.

“AHRA and the annual conference is for anyone, and everyone interested in the field of medical imaging! Leaders, technologists, educators, contractors, vendors; all have a place at AHRA and can benefit from the annual conference,” Foster says. “I am excited that this will be the first year that the Association for Radiologic & Imaging Nursing (ARIN) is joining us at the conference! AHRA’s mission is to educate, develop, mentor and provide resources to medical imaging professionals and the annual meeting is an incredible way to be exposed to and absorb all AHRA has to offer. At the end, you will walk away feeling more enlightened, inspired and proud of who you are and what you do.”

John Beall, FAHRA, MAA-HA, is a regional director with United Imaging who agrees regarding the value of attendance.

“Any medical imaging professional – regardless of role, tenure or experience level – who wants to grow should attend. Whether you’re just starting out or leading a large department, there’s something here for you,” Beall said. “The biggest benefit, in my experience, is the network you build. These aren’t just contacts – they’re trusted peers you can lean on throughout your career. Beyond that, you gain fresh perspectives, practical tools and renewed motivation to improve not only your own work, but how your entire team delivers care.”

“I’ve attended almost every annual since 2015, and I’ve never left a meeting without bringing something valuable back with me,” Beall added.

PARTNERSHIP EXPANDS THE LEARNING

The 2026 AHRA Annual Meeting represents the first formal partnership between AHRA and ARIN at the annual conference level. The collaboration reflects the evolving nature of imaging services, where teamwork among clinical, operational and nursing professionals plays an increasingly important role in patient outcomes.

AHRA Executive Director Jason Newmark, CRA, FAHRA, emphasized the value of bringing these professional communities together in a single environment.

“This partnership represents an important opportunity to foster deeper collaboration across the imaging care continuum,” Newmark said in an announcement about the event. “By bringing AHRA and ARIN members together in one dynamic environment, we are creating space for shared problem-solving, broader dialogue and innovative thinking that will benefit the entire imaging community.”

Through this partnership, attendees can expect integrated programming designed to reflect the realities of modern imaging departments, where clinical workflow, patient safety and operational efficiency intersect daily. The collaboration also highlights the growing recognition that imaging excellence depends on coordinated teamwork among multiple disciplines.

WHAT TO EXPECT AT AHRA 2026

The AHRA Annual Meeting is widely recognized for delivering practical education tailored to imaging leaders at every stage of their careers. The 2026 event builds on that reputation while introducing new perspectives through joint programming with ARIN.

Attendees will have access to a comprehensive educational program that includes:

• General sessions featuring keynote speakers and industry thought leaders
• Breakout sessions covering leadership, operations and emerging technologies
• Workshops focused on professional development and clinical best practices
• Networking opportunities with peers and industry partners
• Vendor exhibits showcasing new imaging solutions and services

The meeting will also feature a gathering space designed to encourage collaboration and conversation among attendees, vendors and professional organizations. These informal interactions often lead to valuable insights and lasting professional relationships. ICE Magazine will be welcoming attendees at Booth #736.

For imaging leaders navigating workforce challenges, regulatory changes and rapid technological advancements, the conference provides an opportunity to step back from daily responsibilities and focus on strategic planning and professional growth.

DEDICATED ARIN PROGRAMMING

An added component of the 2026 meeting is the integration of ARIN programming throughout the event. These sessions are designed to provide practical insights from imaging nurses while fostering collaboration with imaging administrators and technical staff.

Key additions include:

• Dedicated ARIN sessions scheduled throughout the conference
• Two preconference workshops led by imaging nursing professionals
• A signature ARIN workshop highlighting clinical best practices
• A focused two-hour session on opening day designed for all attendees

These sessions are expected to address topics such as patient safety, contrast administration, workflow coordination and communication among care teams – areas where nursing expertise plays a critical role.

By incorporating these perspectives into the broader educational program, the meeting aims to strengthen collaboration between clinical and administrative leaders while supporting more coordinated patient care.

EDUCATION

The healthcare environment continues to evolve rapidly, and imaging departments face increasing pressure to improve efficiency, manage costs and maintain high standards of patient care. The AHRA Annual Meeting addresses these challenges through education that combines strategic leadership concepts with practical operational guidance.

Common subject areas typically covered at the conference include:

• Imaging department management and leadership
• Quality improvement and patient safety
• Workforce development and retention
• Regulatory compliance and accreditation
• Financial performance and budgeting
• Technology adoption and innovation

Sessions are structured to provide actionable insights that attendees can apply immediately within their organizations. Whether participants oversee large health system imaging operations or smaller community-based departments, the program is designed to deliver relevant and practical knowledge.

NETWORKING & PROFESSIONAL CONNECTIONS

Networking remains one of the most valuable aspects of the AHRA Annual Meeting. The event draws imaging professionals from across the United States, creating opportunities to share experiences, discuss challenges and explore new ideas.

Networking opportunities will include:

• Welcome receptions and social events
• Informal networking sessions
• Vendor-hosted demonstrations
• Peer-to-peer discussions
• Collaborative workshops

A joint celebration event is also planned to recognize the contributions of imaging professionals and highlight the collaborative spirit that defines the field. These gatherings help strengthen professional relationships and foster a sense of community within the imaging profession.

For many attendees, connections formed during the conference become long-term professional resources that support career growth and organizational success.

CONVENIENT DESTINATION

The Orlando World Center Marriott will serve as the host venue for the 2026 meeting, offering extensive conference facilities and convenient access to dining, entertainment and transportation options.

Orlando remains a popular destination for professional conferences because of its accessibility, family-friendly attractions and wide range of accommodations. The location also supports strong attendance, making it easier for imaging professionals from across the country to participate.

For attendees traveling with family members, the destination provides opportunities to combine professional development with personal time, a factor that often enhances the overall conference experience.

STORIED HISTORY & BRIGHT BEGINNINGS

Since its founding in 1973, AHRA has focused on supporting imaging professionals through education, leadership development and community engagement. The organization continues to play a central role in shaping best practices within medical imaging management.

The 2026 partnership with ARIN reflects a broader shift toward interdisciplinary collaboration within healthcare. As imaging services become more complex, success increasingly depends on coordinated teamwork among clinical, operational and administrative professionals.

By bringing these groups together under one roof, the AHRA Annual Meeting aims to inspire new ideas, strengthen professional relationships and support the continued advancement of imaging services nationwide.

WHY AHRA 2026 MATTERS

For imaging leaders navigating workforce shortages, evolving technologies and rising patient expectations, staying informed and connected is more important than ever. The AHRA Annual Meeting provides a structured environment for learning, collaboration and professional growth.

AHRA 2026 is more than a conference. It is a gathering of professionals committed to improving patient care, advancing imaging services and shaping the future of healthcare.

With its expanded programming, collaborative focus and forward-looking theme, the 2026 AHRA Annual Meeting promises to deliver an engaging and impactful experience for imaging leaders across the country.