MMS Fall Oration – Once More Unto the Breach: Public Health and the Courage to Confront What Comes Next
Tuesday, October 27, 2026, 7:00 – 8:00 p.m. ET
— Virtual Live Webinar
You will be taken to the MMS Interim Meeting registration page to register for this webinar.
Activity Description
Join the Massachusetts Commissioner of Public Health for a timely and forward-looking discussion on the future of public health and the critical role physicians and health care leaders play in shaping it. As communities face increasingly complex health
challenges—from emerging infectious diseases and environmental threats to chronic disease, health disparities, misinformation, and declining trust in institutions—strong collaboration between medicine and public health has never been more important.
Drawing on experience at the intersection of clinical medicine, public policy, and public health leadership, the Commissioner will explore strategies for strengthening community health, rebuilding public trust, advancing health equity, and creating a
more resilient public health system. The program will also examine how physicians can serve as trusted messengers, advocates, and partners in addressing emerging health threats and improving population health.
Participants will leave with a greater understanding of the forces shaping the future of public health and practical insights into how the medical and public health communities can work together to build healthier, more resilient communities.
History of the Oration
The MMS Annual Oration dates back to 1804 when Dr. Isaac Rand delivered his dissertation entitled, On Phthisis Pulmonalis, and the Use of the Warm Bath. For more than 200 years, MMS orators have addressed a wide spectrum of topics germane to the
evolving practice of medicine.
About the Orator
Robbie Goldstein, MD, PhD
Commissioner, Massachusetts Department of Public Health
To learn more about Dr. Goldstein, click here.
Learning Objectives
- Identify emerging public health challenges and trends that are likely to influence the health of individuals and communities in the coming years.
- Describe strategies for strengthening public trust, advancing health equity, and improving community resilience through collaboration among physicians, public health agencies, health care organizations, and community partners.
- Apply insights from public health practice to identify opportunities for physicians and health care leaders to support population health, communicate effectively with patients and communities, and contribute to a more resilient public health system.
Registration Fees:
Massachusetts Medical Society (MMS) Physician Member – $95.00
MMS Resident/Student Member – Free
Non-Member Physician – $190.00
Allied Health Professional/Other – $75.00
Save by bundling with other educational programs at the Interim Meeting—see the registration page for details!
*Click here for member educational voucher information
Accreditation Statement
The Massachusetts Medical Society is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical education for physicians.
AMA Credit Designation Statement
The Massachusetts Medical Society designates this live activity for a maximum of 1.00 AMA PRA Category 1 CreditTM. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
