Health Care Expo ′85s was an experiment in health education, combining education for the public, physicians and nurses in one site (a convention center) over 1 week. The educational formats were primarily lectures, seminars and educational exhibits. The attendance by each type of participant was disappointing. Overall, the education for the physicians and nurses was rated highly, although there was little interest on the part of health professionals in the exhibits or the parts of the program addressed to the public. The lack of success in terms of money and attendance was probably related to the timing, possibly the location, the tuition, the concept of combining education for several groups in one location, and insufficient advertising. Anyone considering such a combined endeavor will need to address these issues to improve the chances of success.