Ever tried attending a virtual event where you had to create an avatar, navigate a digital conference hall, and interact with pixelated versions of real people? Sounds futuristic, right? But as cool as it seems, there’s something missing—real human connection.
Medical professionals worldwide have adapted to virtual conferences, attending from the comfort of their homes. The convenience is undeniable—no travel stress, flexible schedules, and even virtual museum tours! But despite the tech innovations, many participants find themselves missing the spontaneous hallway conversations, shared laughs over coffee breaks, and the energy of being physically present.
One cardiologist shared her experience attending a conference as an avatar. It took 90 minutes just to build her digital self, and once inside, interactions felt awkward—avatars stood eerily still, making conversations feel robotic. Even with chat functions, the essence of real-time human interaction was lost.
While virtual events offer accessibility and knowledge-sharing, they can’t replace the warmth of in-person connections. A brief Zoom chat with a mentor brought a glimpse of that missing feeling—one that no free CME credits or high-tech avatars can replicate.
Technology keeps evolving, but one thing remains clear: nothing beats face-to-face connections.
