SGS Conference Registration

As the COVID-19 Global Pandemic continues, SGS is cautiously optimistic about holding our 43rd Annual Meeting & Conference in beautiful Panama City Beach, FL. We have heard from many of you regarding your excitement at being in-person. We also recognize that many of you are not yet comfortable with attending this type of event. We want you to make the decision that works best for you. If you are unable to attend this year, we hope we will see you at future SGS events.

The health, safety, and well-being of our attendees, presenters, exhibitors, and sponsors are of extreme importance to us as we plan this year's event. We are taking the following steps to help mitigate the risk of exposure to COVID-19.

• All attendees and exhibitors will be required to be fully vaccinated per the CDC guidelines OR submit proof of a negative COVID-19 test. You can submit your verification at the link below.
  ~ PCR test: the PCR COVID-19 test must have been taken within 3 days prior to arrival at the meeting location. Nucleic Acid Amplification Test—NAAT, e.g., PCR, RT-PCR, LAMP are all acceptable. These are the preferred methods of testing when possible.
  ~ Antigen test: we understand that some attendees may have trouble obtaining a PCR test in their area. We will also accept negative results obtained by a rapid antigen test performed at a pharmacy or healthcare provider conducted within 24 hours prior to your arrival.
• SGS strongly encourages individuals to be tested for COVID-19 prior to traveling. Individuals who test positive should stay home and cancel your registration.
• SGS has purchased KN95 masks and will be supplying them to all attendees and exhibitors at the registration desk. SGS is highly encouraging all attendees and exhibitors to wear masks at all times indoors when not actively eating or drinking.
• Hand sanitizing stations will be available throughout the conference venue.
• SGS is utilizing the available conference space to allow for as much distancing as possible. We will also utilize outdoor spaces as weather permits.
• To help attendees communicate their level of comfort in interacting with one another, SGS will provide color-coded sticker to all onsite attendees to place on their badges.
  ~ Red: Physical Distancing - Greet from Six Feet
  ~ Yellow: Elbows Only
  ~ Green: Handshakes and Hi-fives
• We have requested that staff wear masks while attending to our conference. This cannot be required but the hotel is working with us to make this request to their staff. You can stay up to date with the safety protocols of the Sheraton here.
• REFUND POLICY: SGS will implement a flexible refund policy for attendees this year. If you are experiencing any COVID-19 symptoms, have had exposure to COVID-19, or are simply uncomfortable traveling or attending, SGS will offer a full refund of your registration with notice through the close of the conference. Please note that refunds will not be provided without notice. Notice can be provided by emailing Amanda James at admin@southerngerontologicalsociety.org. Refunds will not be provided for registrants who do not comply with the proof of vaccination/negative COVID-19 test requirement.

Although we are taking steps to reduce your risk, by attending the Annual Meeting & Conference, you are acknowledging that an inherent risk of exposure to COVID-19 exists in any public place where people are present. By attending the SGS Annual Meeting & Conference, you voluntarily assume all risks related to exposure to COVID-19 and agree not to hold the Southern Gerontological Society or any of their affiliates, directors, officers, employees, agents, contractors, or volunteers liable for any illness or injury.

While SGS will offer refunds of your conference registration, you may consider travel insurance to cover other costs related to canceling a trip. While SGS cannot recommend a company, you can review this article for some helpful tips and starting points when considering travel insurance.

If you need to find a testing site near the conference venue, you can visit the Florida Department of Health's Testing Sites website and enter Panama City Beach as the city.