If your work involves lungs, breathing, or critical care—whether as a physician, respiratory therapist, nurse, researcher, or public health advocate—the ATS International Conference in San Diego is a must-attend event. This gathering brings together experts from around the globe to discuss breakthrough science, clinical advances, and real-world strategies for treating lung disease, critical illness, and sleep disorders.
Whether you’re looking to deepen your knowledge, share your findings, or network with peers, this conference offers everything you need—and more.
When & Where It’s Happening
- Dates: May 16–21, 2025
- Venue: San Diego Convention Center, San Diego, California
- Schedule Snapshot:
- Days 1–2: Pre-conference workshops and specialized courses
- Days 3–5: Official conference with scientific sessions, posters, and exhibits
- Day 6: Optional sessions and roundtables, then closing remarks
The convention center sits in the heart of downtown San Diego, near the bayfront, hotels, restaurants, and attractions—perfect for making the most of both workdays and downtime.
What Is the ATS International Conference?
This event is the world’s leading meeting for professionals focused on lung health and critical care. Highlights include:
- Presentations of peer-reviewed science on pulmonary, critical care, and sleep medicine
- Clinical sessions designed to improve patient care and treatment strategies
- Poster sessions with cutting-edge research from global teams
- Exhibit halls featuring devices, medications, digital systems, diagnostics, and training tools
- Networking events that foster collaboration across specialties and countries
It’s a dynamic space where research meets practice and where inspiration meets action.
Who Should Attend
This conference draws a wide mix of professionals, including:
- Pulmonologists, critical care physicians, and ICU directors
- Respiratory therapists and pulmonary nurses
- Sleep medicine specialists and technologists
- Clinical researchers, epidemiologists, and lab scientists
- Industry professionals developing lung-health products
- Public health officials, policy influencers, and advocacy groups
- Fellows, residents, and students in respiratory training
If you care about breathing and saving lives, this event is designed for you.
What to Expect
1. Capital-A Scientific Sessions
Expert-led presentations cover treatments for COPD, asthma, interstitial lung disease, ARDS, and emerging infections like COVID or influenza.
2. Clinical Practice Forums
Featuring case studies and field-tested approaches, these sessions focus on ventilation, mechanical support, pulmonary rehabilitation, and community interventions.
3. Poster Forums
Hundreds of posters span basic science, clinical trials, population health projects, and innovative therapies. Walk the aisles, talk to presenters, and dive deep into new data.
4. Workshops & Courses
Hands-on learning includes ultrasound for respiratory failure, ventilator skills, advanced pulmonary function testing, and sleep tech training.
5. Exhibit Halls
Connect with companies unveiling new smart inhalers, ventilators, diagnostic platforms, telehealth tools, and training materials. Demos and discussions help you see what could help your work.
6. Networking Events
You’ll find everything from meal-time meetups to evening receptions, subspecialty interest groups, and international roundtables—ideal for forging new connections.
Why You’ll Benefit
- Stay up to date on new drug approvals, devices, and therapies
- Learn practical tips you can apply in care tomorrow
- Connect with colleagues from all over the world
- Discover tools and systems that may improve your workflows
- Get CME or CE credit while learning
- Explore cross-disciplinary collaboration (like sleep and ICU intersections)
- Be inspired by global innovation in diagnosis and treatment
Cost & Registration
Here’s a general look at fees (subject to change):
- Early Bird Physician Member: Around $650
- Non-Member Physician: A bit higher, often $850
- Allied Health / Therapist / Nurse: Mid-tier pricing
- Fellow / Resident / Student: Discounted, sometimes under $200
- One-Day Registration: Available for specific days
- Pre-Conference Workshops: Additional cost, often $150–$300 each
Register early for best rates, full session access, and workshop availability.
Where to Stay
Options near the Convention Center include:
- Large downtown hotels with walkability to sessions
- Boutique and mid-range stays with local flavor
- Budget lodging a short ride away
- Vacation rentals—great if traveling with colleagues
Book early—San Diego fills fast in May, especially around major medical meetings.
Getting Around
- Walking: Downtown is compact and pedestrian-friendly
- Ride-share and taxis: Easy, safe, and reliable
- Public transit: Buses and trolleys serve the area well
- Parking: Available in lots and garages, though rideshare can be more convenient
- Airport: San Diego International is a short ride away
Tips for a Great Experience
- Check the program early: Identify must-see science and clinical tracks
- Join workshops: Hands-on courses fill fast—reserve your seat early
- Visit the poster hall often: Ask questions and connect directly with researchers
- Head to the exhibit hall: Demos give insight you can’t get online
- Network actively: You never know when a conversation turns into a collaboration
- Download the app or bring notes: Stay organized and track sessions and contacts
- Follow up post-conference: Send a quick message to continue conversations and build connections
Final Thoughts
The ATS International Conference in San Diego brings together the full spectrum of lung and critical care professionals—from basic researchers to frontline clinicians—to share knowledge, tools, and passion for breathing better care into the world. With live science, interactive workshops, and global perspectives, you’ll return equipped, energized, and connected.
If you’re committed to caring for lungs and lives—this conference will be a turning point in your year.
To learn more and reserve your ticket, visit:
https://conference.thoracic.org