The conversation is changing around how to navigate chronic systemic autoimmune disorders… like Sjögren’s.
The 5th Virtual Sjögren’s Summit, Stronger With Sjögren’s: Thriving in the New Era, convenes 34+ clinicians and researchers July 16–18, 2026 to bridge two things patients rarely get in the same room: the new wave of treatment science, and the practical self-management that supports it.
Put on by the remarkable Kara Wada, MD, this three day conference is free to attend live, and it’s built to be genuinely useful for patients, caregivers, and the medical professionals who refer them.
➡️ Register for your free live pass! 💜
As a physician with over 30 years of experience, I have profound respect for all who are navigating chronic medical conditions. However, it’s my own health journey that’s given me the most insight into how to manage the myriad day-to-day challenges.
I’m honored to be presenting, “Navigating Healthcare Like a Pro: A physician-patient’s playbook for self-advocacy & getting the care you need with chronic autoimmune disease.”
Here’s a sneak peek at what you’ll learn from my talk:

💎 Time mastery: getting what you need at appointments
💎 Streamlining communication: in-person & via the patient portal
💎 Navigating appointments and referrals: access care how & when you need it
💎 Curiosity & listening: promoting a partnership
💎 Establishing goals: running your visit like a board meeting
💎 Insurance tips & tricks: coverage for prescriptions & treatments
➡️ REGISTER HERE! 💜
🌱 Join us, and share this info with others who may benefit… we are all better together!
#SjogrensSummit #VSS2026 #Sjogrens #SjogrensSyndrome #AutoimmuneDisease #ChronicIllness #SjogrensAwareness #Sicca #affiliate
(Disclosure: I’m a VSS2026 affiliate and may earn a commission on tickets purchased through my link above)
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Susan J. Baumgaertel, MD is an internal medicine physician who provides telemedicine medical consultation and advocacy for patients in WA state, and professional career pivot navigation support for physicians in the US. Find her at myMDadvocate.
Her book, The Menopause Menu, is an all-in-one giftbook, medical guide and recipe book for navigating menopause.
Join her talk show, Voices With Vigor, which is free, live & virtual. Topics are health-adjacent, and the monthly guest lineup is impressive.