Future of Health Summit 2026

Partnering for Patients Networking Breakfast

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The Partnering for Patients Networking Breakfast has grown to be a FHS tradition and a popular feature of the Summit. Held over breakfast, this informal 90-minute session invites all conference attendees to connect with peers and leaders across the biomedical, public health, and philanthropy communities around topics that matter most to them. A majority of tables are assigned facilitated topics, led by Milken Institute staff and trusted stakeholders, covering areas such as patient engagement; diversity, equity, and inclusion in research; mental health; food is medicine; affordability and access to treatments; rare disease research; and strategies for funding research. Additional open tables offer space for free-flowing peer connection. The session closes with a program centered on the theme, featuring remarks from Dr. Francis Collins, a Time=Lives talk from Amber Freed, and a fireside chat between the two. Together, they elevate the patient and caregiver voice and send attendees into the day inspired.

    Opening Remarks

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    Raymond Puerini

    Director, FasterCures, Milken Institute

    Moderator

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    Francis Collins

    Former Director, National Institutes of Health

    Speaker

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    Amber Freed

    Founder and CEO, SLC6A1 Connect