Neurology's Next Era Has Begun. Our Takeaways from AAN 2025

Here's what stood out to us:

Alzheimer's Progress Driving Industry Evolution

Conversations about Alzheimer's disease (AD) felt more layered this year, with science that pushed past theory and into application. From the potential of blood-based biomarkers, to understanding and implementing disease-modifying therapies in clinical practice, to patient stratification, the field is making progress. Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists drew attention, too, offering new possibilities for targeting multiple disease pathways. The focus wasn't just on what's coming but also on how soon teams will need to adapt. Standing room–only attendance at sessions like Anti-amyloid Therapy Boot Camp and Innovations in Alzheimer's Diagnostics demonstrated that neurologists are on board and hungry for information on how to embrace the paradigm shift and engage in shared decision-making to maximize outcomes for patients with AD. For those of us working at the intersection of science and communication, this kind of shift demands clarity, context, and strategy.

Parkinson's: Whole-Person Care Is the New Standard

In Parkinson's disease (PD), the discussions leaned into complexity, which was a good thing. Sessions addressed raising the bar on motor function control with new continuous subcutaneous therapies but also moved beyond refining motor function control to address the broader patient experience—including sleep, cognition, and mood. Meaningful attention was paid also to the possibility of biologic diagnostic criteria and early diagnosis, as well as the growing role of wearable tools. What came through clearly is that whole-patient and whole-family care is no longer aspirational: It's expected. That expectation sets a higher standard for how we talk about PD and how we help teams connect innovation to impact on the day-to-day realities of care.

Disparities Are Still Front and Center—But So Are Solutions

From the plenary stage to smaller breakout sessions, we heard one message again and again: Equitable care isn't optional. Sessions like Strategies for Addressing Health Care Disparities Using Value-Based Methods outlined practical frameworks to improve access—from team-based, advanced-practice provider models to data-driven quality metrics. There's no one-size-fits-all, but we're seeing movement, and that matters.

AI Is Here—But It's the How, Not Just the Wow

AI was everywhere at AAN this year, but the conversation went deeper than the hype. In sessions like Artificial Intelligence Ambient Notes: Transforming Health Care with Cutting-edge Innovations, neurologists discussed real use cases—ambient documentation, clinical decision support, and the ethical boundaries we still need to define. The tone wasn't "AI will save us"; it was "AI is here, and we need to get smart about how we use it." We couldn't agree more.

Education Is Evolving—and So Are Learners

Teaching in neurology today means meeting learners where they are and recognizing that engagement, accessibility, and cultural relevance matter as much as scientific rigor. We found the Effective Teaching Across the Spectrum session especially relevant as we think about structuring advisory boards, peer-to-peer programs, and other educational initiatives across generations and geographies.

Where Do We Go Next?

This wasn't just a meeting: It was a glimpse into the urgency of what's next in neurologic care and a reminder of how fast things are changing and how important it is to stay close to the conversations shaping the future. It was also a reminder of how much our role matters. As communicators, educators, and strategic partners, we don't just track the science: We interpret it, engage with it, and help others navigate it in ways that make sense and make an impact.

We were proud to be on the ground at AAN and even more excited to help our clients navigate what comes next. Whether you were in San Diego or following from afar, the momentum in neurology right now is undeniable. If you're thinking about staying ahead of the curve or making meaningful growth in this evolving landscape, let's talk.