The theme for ASTRO's 54^th Annual Meeting is Advancing Patient Care Through Innovation. Changing demographics, a physician based delivery system predicted by many to be unable to meet future demand, dramatic growth in science and technology transfer, shifts in patient attitudes and expectation, and all in the context of a health care delivery system that is becoming increasingly unaffordable represent important societal trends that will force change in how health care will be conceived and delivered. These trends will have untold effects on radiation oncology care as well. Many health policy experts see “innovation” as the solution for these challenges to  our health care system—not only technological innovation, but innovation in the delivery of  care—to achieve  improved  outcomes while bending the cost curve.

This year's program will be held in the Charlotte Convention Center. The education program and professional program will offer a significant opportunity to gain practical knowledge on emerging technical and professional issues. The scientific program will feature the latest research in the physics of medical imaging and radiation therapy, including a major focus on the increasing integration on advanced imaging technologies in the guidance of medical therapeutics.

ESTRO is an interdisciplinary society where radiation oncologists, medical physicists, biologists, radiation technologists and nurses work for the benefit of cancer patients, looking at the collaboration with all the organisations in force in the oncology field. In ESTRO 31 the multidisciplinarity and interdisciplinary components of our practice will be reviewed, emphasising on the new opportunities that they represent for all of us. National Societies and allied Oncology Organisations will convene to join efforts in promoting standards and outcome survey.

Each day, evolving technology, reimbursement adjustments and health care reform all vie for the attention of radiation oncologists, but one thing remains our constant priority- the needs of the patient. Despite this ever-changing health care landscape it is imperative that oncologists continue to put the needs of the patient first. Through multidisciplinary teamwork and a commitment to high-quality care for our patients, radiation oncologists can deliver superior care and receive superior results. Join us in Miami Beach this October as we explore the benefits of “Patient-focused, High-quality, Multidisciplinary Care” as the theme of this year’s meeting.

The American Association of Physicists in Medicine (AAPM) and the Canadian Organization of Medical Physicists (COMP)! This year's joint program will be held in the new West expansion of the Vancouver Convention Centre. This breathtaking venue is in the heart of downtown, with the Gastown District, Stanley Park, and the natural splendor of sea and mountains as only British Columbia can offer.

The education program and professional program will offer a significant opportunity to gain practical knowledge on emerging technical and professional issues. The scientific program will feature the latest research in the physics of medical imaging and radiation therapy, including a major focus on the increasing integration on advanced imaging technologies in the guidance of medical therapeutics.