CARE BEYOND CURE

Primary Palliative Care Conference

Reimagining Primary Palliative Care Through Culture, Connection, and Collective Healing

April 17–18, 2026

Renaissance Fort Lauderdale West Hotel

Fort Lauderdale, FL

About the Conference

The inaugural DNPs of Color CARE BEYOND CURE: Primary Palliative Care Conference convenes DNPs, APRNs, RNs, educators, advocates, and palliative care leaders for two days of learning and connection.

Centered on the theme “Reimagining Primary Palliative Care Through Culture, Connection, and Collective Healing,” the conference highlights culturally responsive approaches to care, practical skill development, and community-building that support sustainable leadership. 

What to Expect

Real-world insight from distinguished palliative care speakers

Learn from experienced palliative care leaders who bring practical, evidence-informed insights from real clinical settings. Sessions are grounded in what works in practice and designed to strengthen culturally responsive, patient-centered primary palliative care.

Interactive learning experiences

Engage in hands-on sessions that translate concepts into actionable skills. Through facilitated discussions, case-based activities, and applied exercises, you’ll leave better equipped to navigate complexity and lead with confidence in your own care environment.

Meaningful connection with peers committed to advancing excellence in primary palliative care

Build supportive professional relationships with clinicians, educators, and advocates who understand the realities of this work. These connections offer collaboration, shared learning, and community—reducing isolation and strengthening your long-term leadership impact.

SPEAKERS

Lolita W. Melhado

PhD, APRN, FNP-BC, ACHPN, FPCN

Rachel Butler

DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, ACHPN

Janice Linton

DNP, APRN, ANP-BC, CCRN, ACHPN

Registration Fees

DOCs Member
(Early Registration)

$75

Early registration ends
March 31, 11:59 p.m. EST
General Public
(Early Registration)

$149

Early registration ends
March 31, 11:59 p.m. EST
DOCs Member
(General Registration)

$99

General registration ends
April 10, 11:59 p.m. EST
General Public
(General Registration)

$199

General registration ends
April 10, 11:59 p.m. EST
Student
(General Registration)

Free

General registration ends
April 10, 11:59 p.m. EST

Inaugural Sponsor

Where to stay

Host Hotel

Renaissance Fort Lauderdale West Hotel

1230 S Pine Island Rd
Plantation, FL 33324

Additional Hotel

Courtyard by Marriott Fort Lauderdale City of Plantation

7780 SW 6th Street
Plantation, FL 33324

Frequently Asked Questions

Who should attend?

Designed for DNPs, APRNs, RNs, educators, advocates, and healthcare clinicians committed to strengthening primary palliative care and leading what’s next.

When is early registration and general registration open?

Early registration is available until March 31, 11:59 p.m. (EST) During this period, DOCs members and non‑members can secure reduced pricing.

General registration opens on April 1 and closes on April 10, 11:59 p.m. (EST). Standard rates apply during this window for both DOCs members and non‑members.

What’s included with registration?

Two full days of interactive learning, small group breakout sessions, role playing, access to palliative care experts, workshop swag, continental breakfast, lunch, contact hours,and access to online micro-credential courses.

Is this an in-person event?

Yes, it is an in-person event.

Are group registrations available?

No, group registrations aren’t available at this time.

What’s the cancellation policy?

No refunds for registration are allowed.

Still have questions? Our team is here to help.