Frequently Asked Questions

General Information

  • Is SHEA Spring going to be in-person or hybrid?

    SHEA Spring will be held as a fully in-person conference. Should this change, all registered attendees and the website will be updated accordingly. Session recordings will be complimentary for all attendees and available on demand through the conference app after the event. Recordings will not be available for purchase separately—registration is required to access them. 

  • Why is Spring in-person only?

    The in-person conference is not merely about the exchange of information and ideas; it’s about relationships and reconnecting with colleagues and friends. It provides an unmatched opportunity to engage professionally, socially, and educationally with the largest gathering of the healthcare epidemiology community. SHEA will take all necessary measures to ensure a safe, productive, and enriching experience for all attendees.

  • When will SHEA Spring 2026 take place?

    The conference will take place April 7–10, 2026. 

  • What time zone will be used?

    The conference schedule will follow Central Time (CT).

  • Where will SHEA Spring 2026 be held?

    SHEA Spring 2026 will take place at the Hyatt Regency Chicago in Chicago, IL.

  • Is there a discounted room rate for conference attendees?

    Yes. SHEA offers a special group rate at the conference hotel. The booking link and details are available on the Hotel & Travel page. Attendees are encouraged to book early, as rooms may sell out quickly.

  • What accessibility accommodations are available?

    SHEA is committed to providing an inclusive and accessible experience for all attendees. Please contact LearningCE@shea-online.org to request specific accommodations and we will do our best to facilitate your needs.

  • Does SHEA Spring have an Exhibit Hall or Sponsorship Opportunities?

    Yes! New for 2026, we will have an Exhibit Hall that features Table Top Exhibits as well as various Sponsorship Opportunities. Learn more by emailing Jessica Johnson.


Registration

  • When will registration open?

    Registration is now open! Learn more about rates and what’s included in registration.

  • Why is there a cost for registration?

    Registration fees are the main source of revenue for SHEA Spring. These fees cover the costs of hosting the in-person conference, including venue, technology, and logistical support. SHEA strives to keep the event affordable and accessible for all attendees.

  • What forms of payment are accepted for registration?

    You may purchase your registration by credit card, check, or purchase order (PO). The check and PO payment options will close on March 16, 2026. After this date, only credit card payments will be accepted. If SHEA does not receive and confirm your check or PO payment by March 30, 2026, you will be required to complete payment by credit card to pick up your badge.

  • Can I make changes to my registration or transfer it to another person?

    Yes! If you can no longer attend, you are able to transfer your registration to another person. Please reach out to LearningCE@shea-online.org to transfer. If you want to make changes to your current registration, you can sign back in to the Conference System and edit or email LearningCE@shea-online.org to assist.

  • What is the cancellation and refund policy?

    Cancellations/refund requests must be submitted via email to Laure Herzog no later than March 16, 2026. A $150 administrative fee will be deducted. No refunds will be issued after that date. 

  • Do you offer group registration or group rates?

    SHEA does not offer group registrations or group rates. Registration is on an individual basis.


Abstracts

  • When can I submit an abstract?

    The Call for Abstracts is open through January 13, 2026. Learn More. 

  • Do I have to be registered for the conference for my abstract to be published?

    Yes. You or another author must be registered to attend SHEA Spring for your abstract to be presented and published.

  • If I am selected for an oral abstract presentation but can’t attend in person, can I present virtually?

    In-person attendance is required. If you are unable to attend, you must designate another author or representative to present on your behalf.

  • Will onsite poster presentations be the same as previous Spring Conferences?

    We plan to keep the Poster Presentation Lunch as similar as possible to previous Spring conferences, continuing to provide an engaging and interactive experience for attendees.


Conference Experience

  • Will the sessions be recorded and available after the conference?

    Yes. Session recordings will be complimentary for all attendees and available on demand through the conference app and password-protected online program after the event. Recordings will not be available for separate purchase—you must be registered for the conference to access them.

  • Is there a conference app?

    Yes. The conference app will include the full schedule, session details, speaker information, maps, and access to session recordings. Login details will be provided to registered attendees closer to the event.

  • Will there be networking opportunities?

    Yes! Networking and reconnecting with peers are key parts of the SHEA Spring experience. There will be a variety of networking events to choose from throughout the conference. More information here.

  • What should I wear to the conference?

    Business casual attire is recommended for all sessions and events. Comfortable shoes are encouraged, as there may be significant walking between sessions.


Continuing Education

  • Will continuing education credits be offered?

    Yes. SHEA Spring 2026 will offer continuing education (CE) credits for eligible sessions. Additional information on claiming credits is available here.

  • How do I access my certificate of attendance or CME credits?

    Instructions for accessing your certificate and claiming credits will be emailed to all attendees. 


Contact

  • Who can I contact about general conference questions?

    Please email the Conference Team at LearningCE@shea-online.org. We encourage you to review all FAQs first to ensure your question isn’t already answered above.