Center for Surgical Ethics – 2026 Surgical Ethics Conference

Advancing Ethical Excellence in Surgical Practice

The 2026 Surgical Ethics Conference returns on September 1–2, bringing together surgeons, educators, trainees, and healthcare professionals for two days of practical, thought-provoking learning.
Designed to strengthen ethical decision-making in real-world clinical settings, this program goes beyond theory—equipping participants with tools to navigate complex situations they face every day in surgical practice and education.

PARTICIPANTS WILL BENEFIT FROM–

• Specialty-specific discussions that explore the ethical challenges unique to surgical disciplines.
• Interactive, small-group sessions that foster multidisciplinary perspectives.
• Flexible learning options, including both in-person and online participation.
• In-person and virtual lectures that feature leading experts in the field of surgical ethics.
• Asynchronous content, allowing attendees to engage with materials on their own schedule.
• Trainee-led ethical presentations that explore a variety of surgical ethics topics and help cultivate a culture of inquiry, reflection, and ethical excellence.

Explore the 2026 Surgical Ethics Conference agenda (PDF) to discover an impressive lineup of expert speakers and a diverse range of timely, thought-provoking presentation topics.
Through a combination of case-based learning and guided dialogue, the conference helps clarify core ethical principles while deepening understanding of the nuanced debates shaping modern surgical care.

THE SURGICAL ETHICS LIFETIME AWARD
This distinguished honor will be presented in recognition of exceptional leadership and enduring contributions to surgical ethics. Past recipients include Drs. E. Christopher Ellison, Professor Emeritus, Academy Professor at The Ohio State University, Former George W. Paulson Medical Heritage Center Scholar in Residence, Former Chief of Staff Elect, Former American Journal of Surgery Editorial Board Member, and Carlos Pellegrini, Professor and Chair Emeritus, Department of Surgery, University of Washington.

Whether you are a practicing surgeon, medical educator, trainee, or healthcare leader, this conference offers a valuable opportunity to reflect, connect, and grow within a supportive professional community.

2026 Surgical Ethics Conference registration
Learn more about the Center for Surgical Ethics

Contact dosadmin@uw.edu / 206-543-3680 for conference details or if you have questions.