Conference Updates and Safety Practices

The Foundation is implementing the following measures at all programs to ensure a safe educational experience:

• Health and safety measures will be in place as issued and/or recommended by federal, state/provincial and local health authorities, including the conference venue and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Canada Health.
• Vaccinations: The Foundation does not require vaccinations for its attendees, but we strongly recommend that attendees get vaccinated if they are able to. The Foundation respects that certain health issues and religious beliefs may prevent some attendees from being vaccinated.
• Mask Wearing: The mask policy will defer to any CDC or local guidance. Attendees of each program will be advised of any policies in place.  
  
• Physical Distancing: All session and breakout room seating will follow local distancing guidance at the time of the event. 
  
• Session Attendance: When available session attendance scanning will be used along with the use of QR codes, facilitating contactless session attendance verification.
• Handouts: In order to minimize touchpoints, there will be minimal handouts available. Attendees are encouraged to download handouts via the website.
  
• Social Functions: When available, all gatherings will follow the current regulatory guidelines and event policies.
• COVID/HCV Protocol Communication: Health and safety guidelines will be communicated on the Foundation website, on the conference mobile app when available. If escalated protocols are in place from health authorities, additional information may be communicated via pre-event messaging and on-site event signage.

Please be aware that the safety protocols may change as the situation evolves.

Conference Participant Expectations:

• Adhere to all federal (CDC/Canada Health), state/provincial, and local health authority guidelines while traveling to and at the program;
• Do not participate if you are experiencing any flu-like symptoms or have recently been exposed to anyone who tested positive for COVID‑19 or variants;
• Wear masks at all conference events when guidance is in effect;
• Wash hands often with soap for at least 20 seconds and/or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer;
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands;
• Engage in additional responsible health and safety practices, traveling to and at the program;
• Act in the best interests of your own well-being, and that of your fellow conference participants; and
• When guidance is in effect, avoid crowded social gatherings, receptions, venues or other indoor activities that do not implement social distancing or other recommended hygiene practices.