Healthcare professionals from across the Southwest gathered in Houston, TX, on September 19, 2026, for the BAPS Charities Healthcare Professionals Conference, an interdisciplinary forum focused on advancing healthcare knowledge, strengthening collaboration, and inspiring compassionate service.
Held under the theme “Enrich. Explore. Empower.,” the conference brought together over 500 physicians, dentists, nurses, pharmacists, researchers, allied health professionals, administrators, educators, and students for continuing education, leadership development, mentorship, and networking.
Featured speaker Malisha Patel, Senior Vice President and Chief Executive Officer of Memorial Hermann Southwest and Sugar Land Hospitals, shared insights on preserving the human core in the era of advanced healthcare and artificial intelligence. Keynotes by Dr. David Sandberg, Adjunct Professor of Pediatric Neurosurgery and Chief Workforce Officer of Covenant House Texas, and Todd Caliva, Chief Executive Officer of HCA Houston Healthcare Clear Lake, shared perspectives on volunteerism, using insights to create impact, and the opportunities and challenges shaping healthcare today.
Through keynote presentations, plenary discussions, workshops, and profession-specific breakout sessions, attendees explored emerging developments in healthcare while addressing ethics, professional well-being, empathy, leadership, and patient-oriented care.
Mentorship and collaboration were also key focuses of the conference. Hands-on workshops, breakout sessions, and networking opportunities connected students and emerging professionals with experienced clinicians and healthcare leaders while encouraging meaningful exchange across specialties.
The conference also reflected BAPS Charities’ greater commitment to community health and wellbeing. By encouraging healthcare professionals to share knowledge, mentor others, advocate for patients and serve their communities, HPC26 seeks to extend its impact well beyond the conference itself.
The gathering was part of the 2026 regional HPC series, encouraging healthcare professionals to Enrich with values, discover opportunities, and Empower through a spirit of service.
