It is our pleasure to welcome you to the Annual Academic Sessions of the HCCS 2025 themed, “Beyond the Bedside – Empowering Care Through Education and Engagement.” As members of the Hill Country Clinical Society, we recognize that exceptional care extends far beyond the clinical encounter. True healthcare transformation happens when we equip providers, patients, and communities with the knowledge, resources, and support to take an active role in health and well-being.

This theme challenges us to reimagine our roles— not only as clinicians but also as educators, advocates, and leaders in patient and community engagement. In this issue, we explore innovative approaches to medical education, interdisciplinary collaboration, and patient- centred initiatives that bridge the gap between expertise and empowerment. Through research, case studies, and expert perspectives, we examine how education and engagement can drive better health outcomes, foster trust, and create lasting systemic change.

The Hill Country Clinical Society remains committed to advancing medical knowledge and improving care through collaboration and continuous learning. We hope this collection of articles and discussions inspires meaningful action and encourages all of us to extend our impact beyond the bedside.

Thank you for your dedication to the art and science of healing. We wish all of you an enriching experience during the HCCS Academic Sessions!

Dr. Amila Rubasinghe
Dr. Vimukthini Peiris

Editors
Hill Country Clinical Society