Physicians and Physicians-in-training Gather for a Night of Learning and Connection

October 2, 2025

This year’s Empowering Physicians event offered a mix of camaraderie, education, and an examination of the American healthcare landscape.  

The event, held September 26 at the Hewing Hotel in downtown Minneapolis, attracted more than 100 physicians and physicians-in-training.  

Physicians and physicians-in-training gathered at the Hewing Hotel in Minneapolis on September 26.

The event kicked off with a president’s reception that featured a poster session with research by medical students, residents and fellows, exhibitor displays, and networking. 

After the reception, guests sat down for dinner, an address from incoming MMA President, Lisa Mattson, MD, a discussion about the University of Minnesota by its president, Rebecca Cunningham, MD, and a keynote speech by Elisabeth Rosenthal, MD, author of the best-selling book, An American Sickness. 

Rosenthal covered a variety of topics in her presentation, including the high cost of drugs, private equity, surprise billing, and accurate price estimates for patients. “We should demand this in health care,” she said. “People are avoiding interacting with the healthcare system because they are afraid they can’t afford it.” 

More than a dozen medical students displayed their research and discussed what they've learned with physicians.

The premier conference sponsor was Copic. Exhibitors included: Abbott, Capitol Park Mental Health Hospital, Dexcom, Ecumen Home Care and Hospice, Eosis, The FootLab, Kate Farms, the Minnesota Disability Determination Services, Minnesota Rare Disease Advisory Council, Otsuka, Palm Beach Accountable Care Organization, Pfizer, Phathom Pharmaceuticals, and Twin Cities Pain Clinic.