The Virtual SCAD Symposium 2026 is a comprehensive, patient‑ and clinician‑focused educational program that provides a full‑spectrum overview of spontaneous coronary artery dissection, from initial presentation to long‑term recovery. Through a blend of expert-led talks, patient stories, and interactive panel discussions, the symposium covers SCAD fundamentals including diagnosis, treatment strategies, and emerging research in SCAD, while exploring associated conditions such as fibromuscular dysplasia, pregnancy‑associated SCAD, psychosocial stressors, and menopause. Sessions address practical issues patients and clinicians face after SCAD—ongoing chest pain, recovery expectations, lifestyle and exercise recommendations, and reproductive health—emphasizing individualized care and shared decision-making. The program integrates the latest research insights with lived experience, fostering understanding, empowerment, and connection for a diverse virtual audience navigating life before, during, and after SCAD.

Target Audience

Nurses; Nurse Practitioners; Physicians; Physician Associates

Learning Objectives

Describe the pathophysiology, triggers, associated conditions, and diagnostic strategies for spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD), including the role of hormones, pregnancy, fibromuscular dysplasia, connective tissue disease, and psychosocial stressors.
Apply evidence‑based approaches to the acute management and recovery phase after SCAD, including treatment selection, cardiac rehabilitation, evaluation of persistent chest pain, medication considerations, and mental health support.
Counsel patients on life after SCAD using a multidisciplinary and personalized framework, incorporating genetic evaluation, lifestyle and exercise recommendations, future pregnancy considerations, and engagement with advocacy networks and ongoing research opportunities.

Course summary

Available credit:

4.50 AAPA Category 1 CME
AKH Inc., Advancing Knowledge in Healthcare has been authorized by the American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA) to award AAPA Category 1 CME credit for activities planned in accordance with AAPA CME Criteria. This activity is designated for 4.50 AAPA Category 1 CME credits. PAs should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation.
4.50 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™
Physicians
AKH Inc., Advancing Knowledge in Healthcare designates this Live Activity for a maximum of 4.50 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
4.50 ANCC Contact Hours
Credit being awarded: 4.50 ANCC contact hours
4.50 Attendance
Credits: 4.50

Course opens:

05/16/2026

Course expires:

12/31/2026

Cost:

$0.00

Rating:

May 16, 2026 | Virtual Event

United States

All of the relevant financial relationships listed for these individuals have been mitigated.

It is the policy of AKH Inc. to ensure independence, balance, objectivity, scientific rigor, and integrity in all of its continuing education activities. The author must disclose to the participants any significant relationships with ineligible companies whose products or devices may be mentioned in the activity or with the commercial supporter of this continuing education activity. Identified conflicts of interest are mitigated by AKH prior to accreditation of the activity. AKH planners and reviewers have no relevant financial relationships to disclose.

Disclosure of Unlabeled Use and Investigational Product
This educational activity may include discussion of uses of agents that are investigational and/or unapproved by the FDA. Please refer to the official prescribing information for each product for discussion of approved indications, contraindications, and warnings.

Disclaimer
This course is designed solely to provide the healthcare professional with information to assist in his/her practice and professional development and is not to be considered a diagnostic tool to replace professional advice or treatment. The course serves as a general guide to the healthcare professional, and therefore, cannot be considered as giving legal, nursing, medical, or other professional advice in specific cases. AKH Inc. specifically disclaim responsibility for any adverse consequences resulting directly or indirectly from information in the course, for undetected error, or through participants misunderstanding of the content. If you would like to opt out from future communications from AKH please send an email to [email protected] with your information with "Opt Out" in the subject line.

Committee Member, Planner, Staff(s)