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May 7, 2026

'Beyond the Stethoscope: How AI is Transforming Healthcare' theme of U of A Arthritis Center Living Healthy With Arthritis Symposium

TUCSON, Ariz. — Dr. Marvin J. Slepian, Regents Professor and director of the Arizona Center for Accelerated Biomedical Innovation, will deliver the Eva M. Holtby Endowed Keynote Presentation, "Beyond the Stethoscope: How AI is Transforming Healthcare," at the 2026 University of Arizona Arthritis Center Living Healthy With Arthritis Symposium.

The organizers of this year's symposium invite attendees to explore a rapidly evolving healthcare landscape where artificial intelligence is enhancing how clinicians diagnose, treat and manage disease. From predictive analytics to personalized treatment planning, AI is helping shift care toward more proactive, data-driven and patient-centered approaches.

Advances in machine learning, digital health tools and biomedical innovation are empowering physicians to detect disease earlier, tailor therapies more precisely and improve outcomes for individuals living with arthritis and other chronic conditions. This transformation is redefining the role of both provider and patient in the health care experience.

Slepian, a nationally recognized leader in biomedical innovation, brings a multidisciplinary perspective spanning medicine, engineering, law and entrepreneurship. His keynote will examine how emerging technologies are moving beyond traditional tools of care – opening new possibilities for earlier intervention, smarter therapies and more connected health systems.

Experts examine what AI means for patients

A featured panel discussion, "AI in Practice: What Does it Mean for Patients?" will be moderated by Dr. Allan Hamilton, Regents Professor of surgery and executive director of the Arizona Simulation Technology and Education Center.

Panelists include:

  • Dr. Srikar Adhikari: Professor of emergency medicine, U of A College of Medicine – Tucson
  • Dr. Stephen Dahmer: Director, Andrew Weil Center for Integrative Medicine; division chief of integrative medicine; and assistant dean of wellness, U of A College of Medicine – Tucson
  • Sudha Ram: Professor of management information systems, Eller College of Management

The panel will explore how artificial intelligence is already being integrated into clinical practice and what these advances mean for patient care, access and outcomes.

The Living Healthy With Arthritis Symposium is held each May in recognition of National Arthritis Awareness Month. The event provides education, insight and support for individuals living with arthritis and related chronic conditions, while offering access to leading experts advancing the future of healthcare.

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Media contact:
Tracy Shake
University of Arizona Arthritis Center
520-626-6046
tshake@arthritis.arizona.edu

Established in 1885, the University of Arizona is the state's flagship, land-grant institution. The U of A ranks among America's top institutions, focusing on student access and success while driving a $1 billion research enterprise and engaging communities throughout the state, nation and world. As a leading Research 1 institution and member of the Association of American Universities, the U of A advances the frontiers of interdisciplinary scholarship and entrepreneurial partnerships. With two accredited medical schools, designation as a Hispanic-Serving Institution by the U.S. Department of Education, recognition as a premier university for service members, distinguished programs in management information systems, planetary sciences, dance, photography, and public and applied humanities, the U of A offers the world to its students while uplifting Arizona.

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AI & Health