Learning, Connecting and Bringing New Ideas Home: Insights from HCIM 2026 

Bringing together more than 650 participants from over 40 countries, the gathering was an opportunity to learn from others, share Australian expertise and connect with people who believe deeply in the power of joy, connection and care.  

HCIM2026 was a powerful reminder that while our work takes place in hospital wards and aged care communities across Australia, we are part of a global movement working to make healthcare more human.  

At the heart of this work is a simple but important belief: even in moments of illness, uncertainty or vulnerability, people deserve to feel seen, supported and connected. 

‘It’s silly business worth taking seriously because where there is better care, there is more hope,’ noted David Symons, Artistic Director, Clown Doctors Australia. 

Sharing Australian Expertise on the Global Stage

Representing Clown Doctors Australia at HCIM 2026 were David Symons, Artistic Director; Jim Sharrock, Clown Doctor and Laughter Care Specialist; Clare Bartholomew, Clown Doctor; and Jo Cohen, Clown Doctors Artistic Associate. While unable to attend in person, our CEO, Emma Pollard also contributed to two online presentations throughout the conference.  

Together, the team joined healthcare clowning practitioners, researchers, healthcare professionals and organisation leaders from around the world to exchange ideas and share insights from our work in hospitals and aged care communities. Their contributions sparked strong interest, including Clare’s practical workshop on high pressure clinical settings, David’s work on feedback and humanising healthcare, and Emma’s presentations on impact and evidence.  

What We Learned from HCIM 2026

One of the strongest themes to emerge was the importance of creating spaces where people can do more than simply cope with healthcare experiences. These spaces should be a place where people can connect, participate and feel a sense of possibility.  

As Christopher Bailey, founder of the Arts and Health Program at the World Health Organization, described it:

‘the world created by clowning is one where “everyone is welcome”, curiosity is encouraged and even mishaps can become opportunities for laughter and celebration’. 

The conference also reinforced that healthcare clowning is deeply relational work. Sessions exploring trauma informed practice highlighted how presence, pacing and connection can help people feel safer during times of stress and uncertainty. Psychologist and Clown Doctor Florence Vinit captured this beautifully:

‘when the patient’s storm meets the clown’s calm, coregulation occurs.’  

These insights speak directly to the heart of what our supporters help make possible. Every visit from Clown Doctors is shaped by care, skill and sensitivity, whether that means helping a child find a moment of courage, bringing comfort to a family, supporting healthcare staff, or creating connection with an aged care resident.

Bringing Home New Ideas

The ideas and connections gained at HCIM 2026 will help strengthen the experiences we create for people across the country. From deepening our understanding of trauma informed care to strengthening the way we support our Clown Doctors and Laughter Care Specialists, these learnings will help ensure each interaction is as responsive, thoughtful and meaningful as possible.  

The team also returned with new international connections and fresh perspectives on how healthcare clowning organisations around the world are building evidence, supporting their teams and working alongside healthcare staff. These shared learnings will help us continue to grow while staying focused on what matters most: building a world where people no longer fear hospital visits or aging alone.  

Looking Ahead

Healthcare clowning may look different across countries and cultures, but HCIM 2026 highlighted a shared commitment to bringing more humanity into healthcare. For us, the experience was a reminder that every moment of connection matters.  

With the support of our community, we can continue creating moments of joy, dignity and hope for patients, families, aged care residents and healthcare staff across Australia. 

Watch the below video to hear from participants across the world and learn more about HCIM 2026.