AARC Congress 2020
International Respiratory Convention & Exhibition
After careful consideration of the ongoing spread of COVID-19 and its effect on RTs everywhere, the American Association for Respiratory Care has decided to cancel the AARC Congress 2020 live event. As the U.S. continues to work toward reopening, we understand there are still uncertainties that prevent an effective in-person meeting.
Your safety and ability to have a worthwhile experience is our top concern and a quality, in-person event for 2020 would not meet the standards you’ve come to expect from AARC Congress.
This annual educational and networking opportunity is vital to the growth of our profession. Because of this, we’re working on a new virtual event for this fall. More details coming soon!
We appreciate your understanding and flexibility during this time. Thank you for all you are doing during this pandemic. We can’t wait to see you virtually!
Frequently Asked Questions
Will there still be a 2020 Congress?
Yes, we are currently working on a unique meeting experience that will be virtual. We will share more details about this virtual event as they become available. Meanwhile, we encourage all members to monitor the AARC website and News Now for more information
What if Florida experiences a turnaround and COVID-19 is no longer an issue in November?
The on-site event was canceled due to concerns over COVID-19. Meetings such as this are booked years in advance and take months to plan and coordinate for attendees, exhibitors and the AARC. As a result, the AARC is committed to our virtual event regardless of future developments regarding the virus.
Will the cost of registration be the same?
Registration fees have not yet been identified. We’re quickly working on the details of the event and will open registration as soon as possible. We encourage all members to monitor the AARC website and News Now for more information. Attendees that have already registered for Congress will be given the choice of a full refund or transferring the payment towards the virtual event.
If I am a vendor, will I receive a refund for my booth purchase?
If you are an exhibitor and have not canceled your booth purchase, a full refund will be issued. If you’ve previously canceled your booth purchase, all contractual obligations with the AARC have been terminated. There will be no reimbursement of cancellation penalties.
Will there be a virtual exhibit hall?
Yes. A virtual exhibit hall will be available in conjunction with the virtual event.
How many continuing respiratory care education credits will be offered with the virtual event?
The agenda for the virtual meeting has not yet been created, thus we do not know the number of hours of continuing education that will be offered in conjunction with the virtual event. We will release this information on the AARC website as soon as it becomes available.
Will there be a Sputum Bowl event?
No. The 2020 Sputum Bowl competition is cancelled and will resume in 2021.
Will I be able to ask questions during live presentations?
Yes. The virtual event will offer traditional, live, continuing education. Attendees will have the opportunity to interact with faculty and ask questions.
Email newsroom@aarc.org with questions or comments, we’d love to hear from you.
Heather Willden is the Director of Governance and Strategic Initiatives for the AARC where she works with state affiliates as the HOD liaison. She also manages DEI efforts and strategic initiatives. Connect with her about these topics by email, AARConnect or LinkedIn. When she's not working, you can find her podcasting with her husband, exploring new hiking trails, photographing, and spending time with her family.
