Realistic Medicine Annual Conference 2026

SPEAKERS

This year marks a significant milestone as we are celebrating ten years of Realistic Medicine in Scotland and we want you to be part of it. It is our showcase event of the year, providing opportunities for sharing and learning.

This year, we’ll explore how Realistic Medicine has evolved in practice and how it continues to improve outcomes for the people we care for. The programme will highlight both achievements and ongoing challenges, supporting shared learning and collective problem solving across health and care.

We are delighted to welcome Professor Jill Sonke, a world-renowned expert on the role of arts in health and care, exploring how creative and community based approaches can enhance wellbeing, reduce health inequalities and support more holistic models of care. The conference will also welcome Jamie Hayes, sharing with us his experience of understanding those we care for and the often hidden physical, emotional and social impacts of medicines, reinforcing the central role of shared decision making at the heart of Realistic Medicine. We also have a wide range of excellent interactive breakout sessions hosted by experts in their fields.

This event includes the official launch of the Chief Medical Officer’s Annual Report 2025 -2026, offering delegates first hand engagement with its key themes, priorities and implications for health and care leaders. Social prescribing and the growing contribution of arts and community based approaches will be woven throughout the programme, reflecting the breadth, ambition and future direction of Realistic Medicine.

Come and join us to celebrate a decade of Realistic Medicine while helping to shape its next chapter across Scotland’s health and care system.