Neurology for the Non-Neurologist

Neurological disorders are common, diverse, and often complex, posing diagnostic and management challenges in primary care. With an aging population and rising prevalence of neurological conditions, it is vital for all healthcare team members—including physicians, physician assistants, and nurse practitioners—to confidently recognize and manage these disorders. The nationwide shortage of neurologists further underscores the crucial role of primary care teams as the first, and sometimes only, neurological care providers for many patients.

Neurology is rapidly evolving with new diagnostic tools and treatments emerging. This high-yield 1.5-day course empowers primary care teams to confidently identify neurological conditions and apply practical management strategies in clinical practice. The first half-day focuses on foundational approaches to evaluating common neurological symptoms. The second day covers key neurology subspecialties, emphasizing practical care for primary providers. Topics include headache disorders, epilepsy, movement disorders, stroke (both acute and chronic management), multiple sclerosis, concussion and traumatic brain injury, dizziness, cognitive decline including Alzheimer’s disease, and peripheral nervous system disorders such as neuropathy, myopathy, and neuromuscular junction diseases. The course concludes with overviews of functional neurological disorders and neurological manifestations of systemic illness. Regular Q&A sessions and breaks during the course encourage reflection, review, and interactive discussion.

1. Develop a systematic approach to evaluating patients presenting with neurological symptoms such as weakness and gait abnormalities.
2. Identify appropriate indications and timing for referral to neurology specialists.
3. Review commonly prescribed medications for conditions such as epilepsy and headache.
4. Recognize evidence-based interventions for acute stroke care as well as non-acute stroke and post-stroke care.
5. Improve diagnostic and management approach to patients with common conditions such as dizziness, concussion, and spine-related conditions.
6. Assess and address cognitive decline and dementia in clinical practice.
7. Recognize common disorders of the peripheral nervous system and apply appropriate management.
8. Review how to manage multiple sclerosis symptoms relevant to primary care.
9. Describe key features and management principles of functional neurological disorders.

IN PERSON MEETING LOCATION
Arthur H. Rubenstein Auditorium at the Smilow Center for Translational Research
3400 Civic Center Blvd., Philadelphia, PA 19104

Directions to Perelman Center for Advanced Medicine/Smilow Center for Translational Research:
The Arthur H. Rubenstein Auditorium at the Smilow Center for Translational Research is located on floor 1 of the Perelman Center for Academic Medicine, 3400 Civic Center Blvd., Philadelphia, PA. If you prefer, take public transportation to and from campus, please visit http://www.upenn.edu/services/transportation for options.

Parking:
Friday: You may park at the 3600 Civic Center Parking Garage. Parking is $20 per day.
Saturday: You may park at the Penn Museum Parking Garage, 3220 South Street, Philadelphia, PA. Parking is $21.

Parking fees are not validated or reimbursed.

REGISTRATION FEES

The fees to attend in-person are as follows: $199 for Physicians/Industry attendees, $125 for Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, Nurses and Healthcare Professionals, and $99 for Residents, Fellows, and Students.

Penn Medicine Employees, Faculty and Staff can register at the following rates: $179 for Physicians, $99 for Nurse Practitioners, Physician Assistants, Nurses and Healthcare Professionals, and $75 for Residents, Fellows, and Students.

All pre-registered attendees will receive access to the conference, attendee booklet, continental breakfast, lunch and refreshments during breaks. Registration also includes access to view the presentations online for one year. Please be sure to register in advance.

Need to Register by Mail?
Please note: mailed registrations may take more than 5-10 business days before they are received because we continue to experience longer delays in receiving mail. We encourage all attendees to register online. See the registration form for mailing instructions. All registrations will be confirmed by email as long as your registration is received no later than October 14, 2026.

BE SURE TO CHECK YOUR SPAM BOX FOR EMAILS REGARDING THIS CONFERENCE.

CANCELLATION POLICY

In order to process refunds for course withdrawals, cancellations must be received in writing by

October 2, 2026 (subject to a service charge equivalent to 10% of the registration fee, but no less than $25.00). No refunds will be issued thereafter.

The University reserves the right to cancel or postpone any course due to unforeseen circumstances. In the event of cancellation or postponement, the University will refund registration fees but is not responsible for related costs or expenses to participants, including cancellation fees assessed by hotels, airlines, and travel agencies.

Overnight Accommodation within Walking Distance:

The Study at University City Hotel

20 South 33rd Street

Philadelphia, PA 19104

215-387-1400

There is no room block or discounted rate available and rooms are subject to availability.

In support of improving patient care, Penn Medicine is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), to provide continuing education for the healthcare team.  

Designation of Credit
Physicians: Penn Medicine designates this live activity for a maximum of 11.50 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

Physician Assistants: AAPA accepts certificates of participation for educational activities certified for AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™ from organizations accredited by ACCME or a recognized state medical society. PAs may receive a maximum of 11.50 Category 1 credits for completing this activity.

Nurses: This program provides 11.50 NCPD Hours.

Credits by Day: Day One: 4.25 • Day Two: 7.25 • Total: 11.5

SERVICES FOR THE DISABLED If special arrangements are required for an individual with a disability to attend this meeting, please contact the Office of Continuing Medical and Interprofessional Education no later than Oct 2, 2026, at 215-898-6400.

Cancellation Policy
In order to process refunds for course withdrawals, cancellations must be received in writing by October 2, 2026 (subject to a service charge equivalent to 10% of the registration fee, but no less than $25.00). No refunds will be issued thereafter.

The University reserves the right to cancel or postpone any course due to unforeseen circumstances. In the event of cancellation or postponement, the University is not responsible for any related costs or expenses to participants, including cancellation fees assessed by hotels, airlines, and travel agencies.