Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Have a question? We recommend glancing through our FAQs first.

When is the conference?
May 5-6, 2026 in downtown Chicago – Check-in opens at 7:30 AM CST (must be registered to attend)

Where is the conference?
JW Marriott Chicago, 2nd floor Grand Ballroom, 151 W Adams St. Chicago, IL 60603. Each day begins with check-in and a complimentary breakfast at 7:30 AM; sessions begin at 8:15 AM CST.

Is there a pre-conference?
Yes! An optional employer-only pre-conference workshop, an activity and dinner will take place on Monday, May 4, 2026. Employers (HR/benefits professionals only) can register for the pre-conference on the conference registration form. The workshop will take place from 1 to 3 PM, followed by an activity 4-5:30 PM and dinner 6:00-8:00 PM. The workshop: Constructing the Blueprint: Using Data to Bend the High-Cost Claim Curve will focus on high-cost claims which have become one of the fastest growing threats to affordability of employer-sponsored healthcare. Catastrophic claims often occur unexpectedly and can become a recurring burden, creating long-term financial impact for self-funded employers. We’ll have a lively discussion around how to leverage your data, steer employees to high-value care, use targeted prevention strategies and construct your plan design to have a measurable impact and lower overall costs.

My company is an employer member. How do I know if we've used our free pass?
Each MBGH primary member received a one-time use discount code to register. If you have questions, contact us.

How do I register or adjust my registration?
Register here. Contact Allison Larson at alarsen@mbgh.org for any questions or to make adjustments to a submitted registration. See below for cancellation policy. Day-of, walk-in registration is not available.

Is there an option to attend virtually?
This is an in-person event only. Unlike other MBGH events, participation via webinar is not available for the conference. View video here of last year's conference.

Is there a dress code?
The event is business casual. Temperatures in the conference rooms may vary and we suggest bringing a sweater or jacket.

Interested in receiving HRCI credits for attending the event?
Those interested in receiving 12 HRCI credit hours must sign in & sign out each day of the conference. Partial credit is not available. Contact Allison Larsen for further questions.

How does MBGH define an "Employer"?
MBGH defines an employer as an HR Professional who manages their population's health benefits. Consultants and sales reps are not considered employers for event registration.

May I invite fellow employers (those that are not members and not from my company)?
Yes! You may invite fellow employers who are not MBGH members. Contact Allison Larsen to learn more. You may also invite your internal colleagues. Please note – conference registration closes at 12:00 PM CT April 30. Walk-in registration is not available.

Can multiple people from my company attend?
There are no limits on employers attending this event – any HR benefits professional is welcome to attend! If your company is an MBGH partner member (non-employer member), registration is limited to a maximum of two per company. If your company is a sponsor of this event, the number of registrants varies depending on sponsorship level. Non-employer, non-member organizations are restricted one person per company. See the registration fees grid.

Is there a conference mobile app?
Yes! A week before the conference the mobile app will be fully updated. All attendees should download the app in order to fully engage in the conference. This includes participating in informative and fun polling questions and accessing the latest information and important notifications. Download the "MBGH Events" mobile app for Apple or Android.

When does registration close?
All Annual Conference registration closes at 12:00 PM CT April 30. Walk-in registration is not available.

What is the cancellation policy?
Registration cancellations must be requested via email. Cancellations received on or before April 1, 2026 will receive a refund minus a $50.00 administrative fee. Registrations submitted after April 1, 2026 are nonrefundable. Substitutions are acceptable. To transfer your registration, contact Allison Larsen at alarsen@mbgh.org. Approved refunds will be issued within 30 days.

MBGH Membership questions?
Contact Mark Pfleger. MBGH membership is organizational based. Please review the member list to confirm if your organization is a member.

FAQS