Experts from across New York and the nation to discuss the health implications of loneliness and the latest innovations to reduce isolation and strengthen social bonds
Albany, NY, May 1, 2026 – NYSTEC, a trusted advisory firm and New York’s Partner in Transformation, today announced its 2026 Population Health Innovation Summit (PHIS) on June 4, 2026, in Albany, New York. The annual event will convene more than 250 leaders from government, healthcare, technology, nonprofits and academia to explore innovative approaches to improving population health across New York State.
This year’s summit, themed “Strengthening Social Connection,” will highlight strategies and solutions that deepen relationships, reduce social isolation and foster community engagement. Sessions will explore topics such as behavioral health, social prescribing, environmental design and the role of policy in addressing loneliness and its impact on overall health.
Kevin Owens, NYSTEC’s president and CEO, said, “Each year, PHIS brings together diverse voices committed to improving the health and well-being of New Yorkers. By focusing on social connection in 2026, we are addressing one of the most pressing and complex drivers of health outcomes. Strengthening the bonds within our communities is essential to building a healthier, more resilient New York.”
The summit will feature keynote speaker Julianne Holt-Lunstad, Ph.D., a nationally recognized expert on social connection and health. Her research has been instrumental in advancing understanding of how social isolation and loneliness impact mortality, mental health and overall well-being.
PHIS ’26 will include keynote presentations, panel discussions and breakout sessions designed to share evidence-based practices and scalable solutions. Attendees will engage in conversations on how systems, policies and community-based initiatives can work together to reduce isolation and improve health outcomes statewide.
Since its inception, PHIS has served as a platform for collaboration and innovation, addressing topics ranging from mental health and artificial intelligence to climate resilience and equity in healthcare. The summit continues to reflect NYSTEC’s commitment to supporting transformative solutions that improve the lives of New Yorkers.
To learn more or register for PHIS 2026, visit https://nystec.com/event/phis2026/. Media inquiries can be directed to jsmith@nystec.com.
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About NYSTEC: New York State created NYSTEC in 1996 to support New York State agencies and government entities to better serve all New Yorkers. NYSTEC’s five core service areas are technology modernization, service transformation, business intelligence, cybersecurity and privacy and quality assurance. The organization is headquartered in Rome, N.Y., with additional offices in Albany, Troy and New York City. More information is at www.nystec.com.
