A message from our
conference chairs
about our theme

UNITING for IMPACT:
Advancing Rural-Urban Collaboration and Innovation
in Perinatal and Infant Health
We are excited to invite you to be a part of NPA’s 2026 interdisciplinary conference, UNITING for IMPACT: Advancing Rural-Urban Collaboration and Innovation in Perinatal and Infant Health.
The conference will take place at The Coeur d'Alene Resort in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho on March 25-27, 2026.
This unique and timely gathering is dedicated to advancing rural-urban collaboration and innovation in perinatal and infant health.
We'll focus on sharing model programs and building new, holistic, impactful solutions that support families.
JOIN the conversation. Your expertise and insights are vital to shaping the future of perinatal and infant health. Be a part of the dialogue that will drive meaningful change and support families, no matter where they live.
Together, we can make a difference!
Respectfully -

Melissa Scala, MD

Christine Gliniak, PhD, OTR/L, CNT, CPXP, NTMTC

Chavis A. Patterson, PhD

Pamela A. Geller, PhD
2026




















Our 2026 Learning Objectives:
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Foster rural and urban collaborations to advance perinatal & infant health.
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Improve access to medical and psychosocial care in healthcare deserts.
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Explore innovative technology and models of care.
We invite you to JOIN US at our March 2026 conference!
















2026 Conference Committee
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Melissa Scala, MD
-
Christine Gliniak, PhD, OTR/L, CNT, CPXP, NTMTC
-
Chavis Patterson, PhD
-
Pamela A. Geller, PhD
-
Celeste Poe, PhD, PMH-C
-
Liz Morris, SLP
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Angela Patterson, MD, FAAP
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Jerry Ballas, MD, MPH, FACOG
-
Kayla Lane, BA
-
Patti Bridges, MSW, LCSW
-
Erika Goyer, BA
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Kristy Love, NPA Executive Director
