2022 Annual Conference Future Directions for Southern Europe Patients’ Organizations

by georgegsp

2022 Annual Conference Future Directions for Southern Europe Patients’ Organizations

One of the priorities of AGORA organization is to reduce the burden of rheumatic diseases o

Date and Location: September 16-17, Lisbon, Portugal
Theme: Exploring the evolution and future pathways for patient organizations in Southern Europe.
Highlights:

  • Session 1: Addressed the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, including its mental health implications and lessons learned from studies such as the Reumavid project.
  • Session 2: Focused on the integration of digital healthcare and proximity care, including delivery methods for biological medications and experiences from various countries.
  • Session 3: Discussed the engagement of patient organizations in healthcare decision-making processes.
  • Session 4: Addressed inequalities in healthcare access, such as the digital divide and challenges faced by vulnerable populations.
  • Session 5: Provided insights into innovative funding approaches and international collaborations for better patient care.

Social Events: Sightseeing tour and a gala dinner celebrated community and cultural exchange.

 Future Directions for Southern European Patients’ Organizations
Held in Lisbon, Portugal, this conference addressed the evolving landscape of patient organizations in the region. Key discussions included the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the rheumatic and musculoskeletal disease (RMD) community, the integration of digital healthcare solutions, and the importance of patient engagement in healthcare decision-making. The event emphasized the need for adaptive strategies to meet emerging challenges and opportunities in patient care.

For the full conference report click here: https://www.agora-platform.eu/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/2022-ANNUAL-AGORA-CONFERENCE-REPORT.pdf
 

the individual and society and to improve the treatment, prevention and rehabilitation of musculoskeletal diseases. In order to achieve that AGORA fosters excellence in education and research in the field of rheumatology and fights for the recognition of the needs of people with RMDs in South Europe and for changing cultural attitudes towards Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal diseases and enable patients to live independent and become a part of the decision-making process.

Education and training is a key area for AGORA. The Annual AGORA Conference is the highlight event in the AGORA calendar.

At political level, AGORA represents the interests of the entire rheumatic disease community of Southern Europe and the special circumstances in which people with RMds are found in Southern Europe.

Also establishing a strong network of organizations for people with RMDs in Southern Europe and enable collaboration with other international organizations is possible through AGORA website and participation to international congresses like EULAR congress, EULAR PARE Autumn conference.

Also developing data records and statistical surveys for South Europe in order to be used as lobbying tools are an essential part of AGORA activities.