Portland: A Cure-All for Healthcare Events
Anchored by cutting-edge research centers and an active outdoor community, the city is focused on health and wellness.
Surrounded by vibrant nature and featuring versatile and unique meeting facilities, Portland is equipped to host everything from industry conferences to arts festivals to pop-culture conventions. But thanks to its location, amenities and institutions, our city excels as a gathering place for medical industry groups. With a considerable number of healthcare institutions and medical research facilities, opportunities abound for site visits, networking and collaborations.
The OHSU Link
Portland has a direct and vital connection to the medical industry: the city’s largest employer is Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), a public research university and a frequent source of innovation for the medical industry. The main campus is located south of downtown Portland connected to the South Waterfront neighborhood by the Portland Aerial Tram.
Part of OHSU, the Knight Cancer Institute brings industry-leading research and care to patients and oncologists in the Pacific Northwest and around the world. Other OHSU resources include the Casey Eye Institute, a robust VA medical program and, thanks to a major $650 million expansion project, enhanced facilities at Doernbecher Children’s Hospital are underway. OHSU offers group tours of the skills lab and simulation center.
An Emerging Biotech Hub
As a top-ten market for emerging bioscience, Portland puts planners at the center of biotech innovation, where life-changing vaccines and immunotherapies are developed. Over 208 research and industry-defining bioscience companies call the city home, including Genentech and Thermo Fisher Scientific. Anchored by the renowned biotech program at the University of Portland, there are ample expert resources for science-based groups.
The Sportswear Capital
The largest concentration of outdoor apparel, gear and athletic shoe brands in the United States is located in Portland, with headquarters for more than 20 brands, including Nike, adidas, Columbia Sportswear and Keen Footwear. In the sports health arena, the Nike Sport Research Lab helps athletes optimize performance with advances in innovation and physiology. And the city is fast becoming a champion of women’s sports with construction of the world’s first dual-sport Women’s Performance Center, shared by Portland Thorns soccer club and the new Portland Fire WNBA team. The center will offer elite strength, conditioning and science-backed training.
Credit: Isaac Lane Koval
Leading Women’s Health
A community centered on compassionate care, Portland’s OBGYN & women’s health resources feature leading institutions and innovative nonprofits. OHSU Center for Women’s Health blends education, equity and research with whole-life women’s care. Other facilities include the S.A.F.E. Center at Providence Hospital, an innovative program for survivors of assault and abuse; and the Community Doula Alliance, a Black, women-led nonprofit that trains and advocates for multicultural doulas.
An Accessible Convention Center
Filled with natural light, the LEED Platinum-certified Oregon Convention Center (OCC) ensures meetings in Portland are peaceful and inviting, enhanced by a $2 million collection of regionally inspired public art. The facility boasts intentional elements designed to make the space inclusive to all, with features such as nursing suites, gender-neutral restrooms, plus ADA-compliant meeting rooms, ballrooms and exhibit halls for wheeled mobility devices. Sensory bags are available to help guests manage sensory overload and stay engaged, and OCC staff can provide briefings on special medical needs and behaviors to ensure every attendee feels comfortable and supported.
Credit: Oregon Convention Center
Home Base for Healthy Living
Portland’s focus on wellness and community makes it a natural fit for medical industry groups. A haven for outdoorsy residents and visitors, there are activities and green spaces throughout the city and surrounding forests, rivers, valleys and mountains. The internationally known culinary scene offers delicious opportunities to gather and relax. And there are always unique ways to prioritize wellness while practicing self-care.
Credit: Catalina Gaitan
It’s no wonder medical industry groups love to meet in Portland. The city’s open, proactive attitude reflects Oregonians’ commitment to medical freedom, as evidenced by state laws that prioritize physicians’ and patients’ rights. It’s a place where innovative healthcare institutions, accessible facilities and an active and health-conscious community welcome everyone.
Was this page helpful?