Regardless of the outcome of the 2026 midterm elections, the landscape of health policy in the United States will be shaped by recent political realities—and the stakes could not be higher. Threats to Medicaid, SNAP, and the broader safety net, rising challenges to democratic institutions, and a public health infrastructure under strain make improving health outcomes more difficult and more urgent than ever. Philanthropy has a critical role to play in supporting communities and charting a path forward that alters systems and policies to ensure that everyone has a fair and just opportunity to achieve their highest level of health. The 2026 Grantmakers In Health (GIH) Health Policy Exchange will provide space to assess the post-election environment, identify where investment and action are most urgently needed, and explore ways health funders can mobilize to advance health and well-being for all at the federal, state, and local levels.
This year’s Health Policy Exchange will be held November 9 – 11, 2026, at The Westin Arlington in Arlington, VA.
We will begin on Monday, November 9 at 2pm with an opening plenary that offers reflections on the recent elections and explores opportunities to capitalize on the forward momentum philanthropy has built since 2025.
The second day will focus on some of the most pressing issues facing communities and health systems, including Medicaid, SNAP, public health, and democracy. Through expert-led discussions and interactive sessions, attendees will identify priority issues around which philanthropy can organize for meaningful impact in 2027.
The final day will spotlight the unique health challenges and opportunities facing older adults and rural communities and conclude with a networking lunch designed to foster collaboration and strengthen relationships across the field.
Following the conference, health funder CEOs are invited to a special workshop to explore the challenges and opportunities ahead. Building on themes raised throughout the Health Policy Exchange, including the defense of democracy and preserving the safety net, this discussion will focus on identifying shared priorities, strengthening collective leadership, and defining opportunities for coordinated action.
Health Policy Exchange takeaways include:
- An assessment of the post-election environment
- Determination of where investment and action are most urgently needed
- Mobilizations to advance health and well-being for all at the federal, state, and local levels
- What's next in health policy, and ideas for how to work together in 2027 and beyond
Lauren LeRoy Health Policy Lecture
The Health Policy Exchange features the Lauren LeRoy Health Policy Lecture, a lecture series established in honor of former GIH President and CEO Lauren LeRoy and her commitment to increasing communication between the worlds of philanthropy and policy.
Last year's speaker was Keshia Pollack Porter, Dean of the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.
The Westin Arlington
Registrants will receive a link to book rooms in the registration confirmation email.
$296/night
The Westin Arlington
Sponsor the Health Policy Exchange 2026
Sponsorship is a great way for mission-aligned organizations to gain visibility with hundreds of health funders. There are a range of sponsorship options available with features to suit your goals including dedicated tables, sponsored events, extensive digital recognition, and customizable sponsorships.