Frequently Asked Questions – Scientific Sessions 2024

Pre-Sessions Symposia & Early Career Day: November 15, 2024
Scientific Sessions: November 16–18, 2024
McCormick Place Convention Center | Chicago, Illinois

Quick Tips

Whether this is your very first Scientific Sessions or you're a seasoned attendee, we want to make it easy for you to hit the ground running in Chicago. Follow these tips to make your conference experience smooth!

  1. Register for Scientific Sessions 2024: Visit the Registration page for full details
  2. Book your hotel: Our Housing and Transportation page lists our hotels.
  3. Book your journey to Chicago.
  4. Download the AHA Conferences Mobile App: It's #AHA24 in your pocket! Scheduling, abstracts, maps, and more in one convenient place.
  5. Make a plan: There is so much to do at Scientific Sessions, and your time is valuable. We recommend using the scheduler on the Online Progam Planner to plan each day of your visit, before you arrive.
  6. Already Registered? Need to add a ticket, get your receipt, print a visa letter? Have your badge ID ready and visit the Registration Resource Center.

IMPORTANT: Beware of Frauds and Scams

The American Heart Association has been alerted to fraudulent websites posing as official Scientific Sessions registration, housing, exhibit, and meeting space websites. Please note that these websites are scams and avoid sharing any personal and/or financial information with them. (See our official vendors).

AHA does not guarantee any registrations, lodging, exhibit space, and/or meeting space for Scientific Sessions nor any redress for registrations, hotel reservations, exhibit space, and/or meeting space made through an unauthorized provider. For informational purposes, however, AHA asks you to please report any unauthorized activity along with relevant documentation to [email protected]. This applies if you have either booked lodging, exhibit space, meeting space and/or paid registration fees for Scientific Sessions through an unauthorized provider or received solicitations.

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Before Arriving at #AHA24

When and where is Scientific Sessions 2024?

  • The conference will be held at the McCormick Place Convention Center, 2301 S. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, Chicago, IL, 60616.
  • Early Career Day and Pre-Sessions Symposia start Friday, November 15. Regular sessions start Saturday Nov. 16 and continue through Monday, November 18, 2024.
  • Chicago is one of our country's most popular cities. Explore food, art, music, and the best the city has to offer at the Choose Chicago site from the city's tourism bureau.

The skyline of downtown Chicago. Photo by Benjamin Suter.

How do I get there?

Chicago is serviced by two international airports, and also rail service from Amtrak (national) and Metra (Chicago area).

Local Airports

Once you've arrived in Chicago, rideshare and taxi apps will be your best bet for moving around the city.

Rideshare Apps Taxi Apps

Are there shuttle buses to the convention center?

  • Yes! We've arranged for complimentary shuttle bus service from most hotels on our list, except those within a half-mile of the convention center. Explore the list on the Housing and Transportation page.
  • You can also link to the live Shuttle Bus Arrival time app or use the QR code to scan with your phone.
A QR code that takes users to the #AHA24 Shuttle Schedule site.

Arriving from a country outside the U.S.?

Begin your visa application process as soon as possible. Consulates in some countries take several months to process applications. After you register for the conference, you will receive a confirmation that includes a link to print your invitation letter. You can submit this letter with your visa application to verify the name, dates, location, and purpose of Scientific Sessions 2024. (Already registered? Find receipts, visa letters and more in the Registration Resource Center. Have your badge ID ready to access.)

For further details, see our International Visitors section on the Terms and Conditions page.

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On-Site in Chicago

Is there a Conference Mobile App?

Our AHA Conferences Mobile App has maps, a customizable schedule, programming details, abstracts, and more. Be sure to download this before the conference! (If you have used the app before, you'll be prompted to accept the #AHA24 Schedule.)

Mobile device charging stations are available in high-traffic locations throughout the convention center.

What are some other useful links?

Watch this space for convention center maps, room locations, and other helpful on-site links.

Pro Tip
Make #AHA24 your conference by personalizing your experience!

  1. Plan your schedule carefully. Use the Mobile App or the Online Programming Planner to bookmark the sessions you want to attend before you get on site. Don't forget to save time for lunch and for networking with colleagues!
  2. Ticketed events like dinners and receptions are great places to meet others in your field. (You don't even have to be an AHA Professional Member to attend!) If you didn't purchase a ticket during registration, visit the Registration Resource Center to get one now.
  3. All times are in Central Standard Time (CST) (UTC -6).

Is child care available?

Yes! The American Heart Association is committed to supporting families in science and medicine, so childcare will once again be available during Scientific Sessions 2024.

Pre-registration for childcare closed November 7, 2024. Space is now based on availability. To learn more, visit the childcare center in the McCormick Place Convention Center, North Building, Room N128.

Where do I go for Information on-site?

  • Ask questions on-site at the Information Desk, Grand Concourse, Level 2.5

Where and when can speakers upload their presentations?

  • Upload your presentation slides in the Speaker Resource Room, Room N426AB, North Building, Level 4.
  • Be sure to see the Abstract Presenter Guidelines (PDF) for important information.
Speaker Resource Room Hours for #AHA24
Day Hours (CST)
Thursday, November 14 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Friday, November 15 6:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Saturday, November 16 6:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Sunday, November 17 6:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Monday, November 18 6:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

What is the Science and Technology Hall?

The Science & Technology Hall is a showcase for the latest in cardiovascular and brain health—visit with exhibitors for leading-edge updates in cardiovascular health products and treatments. While you're there, check out these can't-miss opportunities:

Heart Hub
The Heart Hub is the AHA in motion...Heart Quarters, Lounges for AHA Members and FAHA, the Quality Showcase, Health Innovation Pavilion, Heart Theaters, and Learning Studios.  Come to recharge, network, and learn.

Simulation Zone
 Hands-on Learning guided by expert faculty. Skills include point-of-care ultrasound, pulmonary artery catheter placement, pericardiocentesis and so much more! Also, don’t miss your opportunity to stop by and sign up for a spot in the Masterclass for Team-Based Cardiogenic Shock Diagnosis and Management!

Health Tech Competition
 Join thousands of health care, technology, and executive leaders for the American Heart Association Health Tech Competition, November 16-18, 2024 at the #AHA24 Scientific Sessions in Chicago. Five health start-up finalists with potential for game-changing technologies in the treatment and prevention of cardiovascular disease will pitch their companies to a panel of distinguished judges, top physicians, and industry leaders in hopes of winning the AHA Health Tech Competition.

Posters
 Set aside some time to visit the Posters area in the Science & Technology Hall, where you can discuss abstracts and clinical cases with presenters. Engage with presenters and Poster Professors as presenters discuss their research on display at their assigned poster board. Experience more engagement with presenters and audience during the moderated digital poster sessions.

Moderated Digital Posters Schedule

#AHA24 Moderated Posters Daily Schedule
Day/Date Times
Saturday, Nov. 16 9:30 a.m. until 10:55 a.m.
Saturday, Nov. 16 11:10 a.m. to 12:35 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 16 12:50 p.m. to 2:15 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 16 2:50 p.m. to 4:15 p.m.
 
Sunday, Nov. 17 9:30 a.m. to 10:55 a.m.
Sunday, Nov. 17 11:10 a.m. to 12:35 p.m.
Sunday, Nov. 17 3:15 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
 
Monday, Nov. 18 9:30 a.m. to 10:55 a.m.
Monday, Nov. 18 11:10 a.m. to 12:35 p.m.
Monday, Nov. 18 12:50 p.m. to 2:15 p.m.

Follow the instructions for the Poster Presenters Guidelines tab on the Presenters and Moderators page for set-up and take-down information.

Board Posters Daily Schedule

#AHA24 Board Posters Daily Schedule
Day/Date Times
Saturday, Nov. 16 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Saturday, Nov. 16 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
 
Sunday, Nov. 17 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Sunday, Nov. 17 3:15 p.m. to 4:15 p.m.
 
Monday, Nov. 18 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Monday, Nov. 18 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Follow the instructions for the Poster Presenters Guidelines tab on the Presenters and Moderators page for set-up and take-down information.

Are there really puppies at #AHA24?
Yes, we really have furry friends for you to pet! Stop by the Science & Technology Hall to de-stress with some snuggly puppies and kitties for your daily dose of pet therapy. Research shows that petting animals can help keep our hearts healthy!

Check the AHA Conferences mobile app for scheduled hours.
Sponsored by Sanofi

Women snuggling with a puppy

Lp(a) Testing
(Booth #2754, Science & Technology Hall)
Do you know your number? Stop by the Lp(a) Blood Testing booth to learn more (while supplies last).
November 16-17, 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m..
 Sponsored by Novartis Pharmaceuticals

Abstracts on USB
(Booth #2739, Science and Technology Hall)
 Take some AHA science home! Pick up your complimentary copy of #AHA24 abstracts on a USB stick (while supplies last).
Sponsored by Lexicon Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

Opportunities for AHA Professional Members
(Various locations)
AHA Professional Members and Scientific Councils are at the heart of Scientific Sessions. See our Council & Member Activities page for programming and events geared for your interests.
Don't forget to pick up your members-only pin in the Member Lounge. Not yet a member? Join today!

Shop Heart
(Main Concourse)
We have new AHA merchandise, clothing and swag! Visit Shop Heart in the Main Concourse to take a little AHA home with you.

What is the Health Technology and Innovation Pavilion?
(Science and Technology Hall)
A premier destination on the Science and Technology Hall floor, this exclusive space is designed to showcase Health Tech and Innovation (PDF) programming and other related content. Seamlessly integrated into the overall program, the pavilion enhances the attendee experience with its cutting-edge educational offerings and serves as a thriving hub for the rapidly expanding realm of technology and innovation.

What are Industry Events?
Any activity which is independently organized, offered, and/or accredited by an organization other than the American Heart Association (AHA), American Stroke Association (ASA); and held before, during or after an AHA/ASA Scientific Conference.

How do I become an exhibitor?
Visit our Exhibit at Sessions site to learn more about getting your products in front of health care professionals and any of our AHA professional conferences.

Other Services & Hours

If viewing on mobile device, click and drag the table to the right to see activity on all days.

#AHA24 List of Services & Hours - All times CST
Service Thursday
Nov. 14		 Friday
Nov. 15		 Saturday
Nov. 16		 Sunday
Nov. 17		 Monday
Nov. 18
Registration
(North Hall, Level 3)		 1:00 p.m.
to 6:00 p.m.		 7:00 a.m.
to 5:00 p.m.		 6:30 a.m.
to 6:00 p.m.		 7:00 a.m.
to 5:00 p.m.		 7:00 a.m.
to 3:00 p.m.
Programming
(Throughout Convention Center)		 n/a 8:00 a.m.
to 6:00 p.m.		 8:00 a.m.
to 4:30 p.m.		 8:00 a.m.
to 4:45 p.m.		 8:00 a.m.
to 4:30 p.m.
Exhibits
(Science & Technology Hall)		 n/a n/a 9:00 a.m.
to 4:30 p.m.		 9:00 a.m.
to 4:30 p.m.		 9:00 a.m.
to 3:00 p.m.
Speaker Resource Room
(Room N426AB, North Building, Level 4)		 1:00 p.m.
to 6:00 p.m.		 6:30 a.m.
to 6:00 p.m.		 6:30 a.m.
to 6:00 p.m.		 6:30 a.m.
to 6:00 p.m.		 6:00 a.m.
to 3:00 p.m.
Member Lounge & FAHA Lounge
(Heart Hub, Science & Technology Hall)		 n/a n/a 9:00 a.m.
to 4:30 p.m. 		9:00 a.m.
to 4:30 p.m. 		9:00 a.m.
to 3:00 p.m.
Coat Check
(Convention Center Lobby, Level 1 between the convention center and Hyatt Hotel)		 n/a 7:00 a.m.
to 7:00 p.m.		 7:30 a.m.
to 5:00 p.m.		 7:30 a.m.
to 5:00 p.m.		 7:30 a.m.
to 3:00 p.m.
Shop Heart
(Grand Concourse Level 2.5)		 n/a 7:00 a.m.
to 5:00 p.m.		 7:00 a.m.
to 5:00 p.m.		 7:00 a.m.
to 5:00 p.m.		 7:00 a.m.
to 3:00 p.m.

What are some Can't-Miss Experiences?

Opening Session
(Sat., Nov. 16, 8:00 a.m., Main Event)
 Be a part of the Opening Session celebrating the AHA's 100th Year, featuring the Dr. Nanette K. Wenger Research Goes Red™ Award for Best Scientific Article on Cardiovascular Disease and Stroke in Women.

Late-Breaking Science
(Saturday through Monday, see schedule for details)
 Immediately following the opening session stay for the first late-breaking science session of the conference. LBS.01 is titled, "Celebrating a Century of Cardiovascular Science: From Prevention to Treatment, to Cure." Explore the multiple Late-Breaking Science and Late-Breaking Basic Science sessions.

Main Event Sessions
(Saturday through Monday, see schedule for details)
 Experience more exciting cross-specialty Main Event sessions including Reshaping the Landscape of Cardiovascular Basic Research and Health Care, Artificial Intelligence, Gene Therapy in Cardiology and many more!

Distinguished lectures
(Saturday through Monday, see schedule for details)
By Bruce Beutler, MD; Barbara Casadei, MD, and Matthew A. Allison, MD, and many, many more.

Posters
(Science and Technology Hall, see schedule for details)
 An abundance of moderated and digital posters to enhance scientific discourse.

Centennial Experience
(Grand Concourse, Level 2.5)
 Visit the Centennial Experience and enjoy our interactive exhibits.

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After #AHA24

  • Claim CE Credit: Follow the instructions on our CE Credit page to claim your continuing education credit.
  • Scientific Sessions OnDemand™ will be available for viewing approximately two to four weeks after the conference.
    (The page will be updated with approved courses just after the conference.) You can purchase the product before or after the conference.
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General FAQs

How much does Scientific Sessions 2024 cost?

  • Registration prices depend on your career level, whether you are an AHA Professional Member, and how early you purchase your ticket. 
  • Nonmembers can pay anywhere from $500 to $1,395. AHA Professional Members pay anywhere from $95 to $1,095. Please check the pricing tables on the registration page to see what is available for your career level. It's not too late to become a Member!
  • Additional costs
    Several add-ons Ticketed Events can be added to your registration:  like council dinners, receptions and networking events. (You don't even have to be a member!)

How do I register?

  • Click the "Register Now" button at the top right of this page, or visit the Registration page.

How do I reserve a hotel room?

  • We have negotiated rates with more than 20 hotels within 5 miles of the convention center. For best availability, book by October 21, 2024. The registration link and other information is available on our Housing and Transportation page.

Do you have group discounts?

  • Discount registration pricing of $750 is available for groups of 40 or more.
  • The deadline to sign up is November 1, 2024. Get additional details in the Group Registration section of the Registration page.

How do I follow Scientific Sessions on Social Media?

What is Scientific Sessions?

The American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions is an annual three and a half-day conference for any and all cardiovascular health care professionals. Expect to find practice-changing science, late breaking studies and presentations, plus guidance and programming for everyone from students to seasoned professionals. View Science by Program Focus with 28 specialties, as well as Late Breaking Science, Late Breaking Basic Science, and Featured Science.


Where and when is #AHA25?

Scientific Sessions 2025
Pre-Sessions Symposia & Early Career Day: November 7, 2025
Scientific Sessions: November 8–10, 2025
Ernest N. Morial Convention Center | New Orleans, Louisiana


Where can I see #AHA24 Programming?

Use the Mobile App or the Online Program Planner to find the latest on schedules, speakers, abstracts, last-minute changes, and more. Previous Scientific Sessions meetings have some limited information on our Archive pages.


Is there Virtual Programming offered in 2024?

Scientific Sessions 2024 does not offer virtual programming, but you can purchase Scientific Sessions OnDemand™ to watch 300+ presentations any time, any where. Earn CE credit and get the top presentations in online format!


What is Scientific Sessions OnDemand™?

Access the latest cardiovascular and brain health science anytime, anywhere, and earn CE! Stay current digitally with educational content to match your interests. Learn whenever, wherever — virtually. #AHA24 offers its global audience a wealth of new cardiovascular clinical and scientific updates through Late-Breaking Science and Featured Science sessions, debates, and hot topic discussions. Access the education, data, and expert perspectives from the meeting — whenever and wherever you choose. Visit the page to learn more.


What is the Gold Package?

The Gold Package consists of a ticket to Scientific Sessions bundled with one year's access to Scientific Sessions OnDemand™ for an extra $299 for Professional Members, and $499 for nonmembers. 

If you don't purchase the Gold Package at registration, you can purchase Scientific Sessions OnDemand™ separately after the conference. Detailed program offerings will be posted on the Scientific Sessions OnDemand™ page after the meeting ends.


Who are the 2024 award winners at Scientific Sessions?

This year's winners can be found on the Scientific Sessions Awards page. Be sure to apply next year for one of our exciting awards. 


Who is the Scientific Sessions leadership?

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Need Help?

Registration

Contact: [email protected]
Phone: 1-508-743-8517
Monday through Friday,
9 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET

Membership

Contact: [email protected]
Phone: 1-888-242-2453 (or outside the US, 1-214-570-5935).

Conference & Media

Conference Contact: [email protected]
Phone: 1-888-242-2453 or 214-570-5935

Media Inquiries
American Heart Newsroom
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 214-706-1173

All Other Questions

If your question is unrelated to registration, membership, or Professional Heart Daily, and is not answered above, please complete this form or call 1-800-AHA-USA-1 (1-800-242-8721).

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