Summary:
Registration is now open for the American Cochlear Implant Alliance’s CI2026 Chicago Conference, a multidisciplinary cochlear implant meeting scheduled for May 6–9, 2026.

Key Takeaways:

  • CI2026 will deliver broad, multidisciplinary education covering emerging CI technologies, AI, mental health, health disparities, SSD/AHL challenges, and clinic efficiency strategies.
  • Highlights include the Niparko Memorial Lecture by Dr Craig Buchman on tonotopic coding, the Rehab Connect Forum on socioemotional issues, and an interactive exhibit hall.
  • The conference will be held at the centrally located Hyatt Regency Chicago with convenient CTA access to both major airports, and member discounts are available for ACI Alliance registrants.

Registration is open for the American Cochlear Implant Alliance (ACI Alliance) CI2026 Chicago Conference on Cochlear Implants, taking place May 6-9, 2026 at the Hyatt Regency Chicago Hotel. Discounted early bird registration rates are available through March 18, 2026.

CI2026 will aim to foster dissemination of multi-disciplinary scientific information applicable to physicians, audiologists, speech pathologists, psychologists, scientists, engineers, educators, students, and others involved in cochlear implantation. Anticipated session topics include but will not be limited to:

• Emerging technologies in cochlear implantation including AI • Unique challenges in SSD/AHL patients (pediatrics, tinnitus, Medicare) • Mental health comorbidities in CI care • Speech perception testing for non-English speakers • Socioeconomic factors and health disparities in CI care • Optimizing clinic efficiency and program growth (telemedicine, patient navigators, others)

ACI Alliance Announces Niparko Memorial Lecturer for CI2026 Conference

The Niparko Memorial Lecture will be delivered by Dr Craig Buchman on “Tonotopic Coding in Cochlear Implantation.” The popular Rehab Connect Forum will focus on socioemotional issues in children and adults associated with cochlear implantation. The conference will also include an interactive exhibit hall for attendees to meet with businesses, schools, governmental entities, publishers, and non-profits in the hearing health space.

The Hyatt Regency Chicago is centrally located to many of Chicago’s top attractions and connected to both O’Hare International Airport (ORD) via the CTA Blue line, and Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) via the CTA Orange Line. ACI Alliance encourages attendees to arrive early and stay after the conference to enjoy all Chicago has to offer.

ACI Alliance members should register with the email associated with their individual or organizational membership to receive the appropriate member discount. Full CI2026 conference and registration details can be found at https://ci2026chicago.org/.