Neurology for the Non-Neurologist (Oct 16 - 17, 2026)

Neurology for the Non-Neurologist is organized by Penn Medicine - Continuing Medical and Interprofessional Education and will be held from Oct 16 - 17, 2026 at Smilow Center for Translational Research, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America.

Description:
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.

Objectives:
After completing this activity, participants should be able to:

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