Join Colleagues from Across the Region at the 2026 South Dakota Neuro Stroke Conference

Stroke care is a team effort, and there has never been a better opportunity to connect, learn, and collaborate with professionals dedicated to improving outcomes for patients across South Dakota.

The American Heart Association invites healthcare professionals to attend the 2026 South Dakota Neuro Stroke Conference, taking place September 29-30, 2026, at the Holiday Inn & Convention Center in Spearfish, South Dakota. This dynamic event is designed for those involved in every stage of stroke care, including EMS providers, physicians, advanced practice providers, nurses, rehabilitation specialists, therapists, social workers, case managers, quality improvement teams, and healthcare leaders.

This year's conference theme, "Fitting the Puzzle Pieces Together," celebrates South Dakota's unique stroke system of care while bringing together experts from across the continuum to share best practices, strengthen partnerships, and build practical skills that can be applied immediately in clinical practice. Attendees will explore topics ranging from emergency stroke recognition and evidence-based treatment strategies to recovery, rehabilitation, care transitions, quality improvement, and the patient experience after stroke.

The agenda features nationally and regionally recognized speakers addressing critical issues in stroke care, including rural stroke systems, maternal stroke considerations, substance use and stroke, hemorrhagic stroke management, telehealth, mobility and rehabilitation, and innovations in emergency response and care coordination. Participants will also benefit from hands-on stroke assessment training and interactive learning opportunities designed to strengthen clinical confidence and competency.

In addition to the main conference, attendees are encouraged to take advantage of several valuable pre-conference opportunities. Healthcare professionals involved with stroke quality programs can participate in the Get With The Guidelines® Stroke Abstraction Workshop, an interactive session focused on abstraction of a mock Drip & Ship case and practical application of quality measures.

Healthcare executives, clinical leaders, stroke coordinators, EMS leaders, and key decision-makers are also invited to participate in the Leadership Retreat, a special pre-conference event focused on advancing South Dakota's stroke systems of care. The retreat provides a unique forum for strategic discussions, relationship building, and collaboration among leaders who are shaping the future of stroke care across the state. Together, participants will explore opportunities to strengthen regional partnerships, improve access to care, and continue advancing quality outcomes for stroke patients.

One of the most impactful aspects of the conference is its emphasis on the entire patient journey. From pre-hospital recognition and emergency treatment to rehabilitation and long-term recovery, attendees will gain insights into the challenges and opportunities that exist at every stage of care. The conference concludes with Voices of Recovery, a moderated discussion featuring stroke survivor perspectives and powerful reminders of why coordinated, patient-centered care matters.

Whether you're looking to enhance your clinical expertise, strengthen your organization's stroke program, connect with peers, or help shape the future of stroke care in South Dakota, the 2026 South Dakota Neuro Stroke Conference offers something for everyone.

Register today for the conference, Leadership Retreat, Get With The Guidelines® Stroke Abstraction Workshop, and related events at www.ActFASTSD.org. Join colleagues from across the region in Spearfish this September and be part of the ongoing effort to improve stroke care and save lives throughout South Dakota and beyond.