The first European Congress driven by patients begins today in Brussels, Belgium.

“The patient is a hugely untapped resource in the health system. The Congress will stimulate debate and discussion, building on the premise that the patient’s own unique experiential knowledge, can impact on various areas” [Marco Greco, EPF President].

Meaningful patient involvement is an underused resource in the development of innovative, patient-centred healthcare design and delivery. Yet developments at a European level remain piecemeal and limited in reach.

From 12 to 14 November 2019, the EPF Congress will aim to instigate a narrative of real and lasting change in attitudes, knowledge and resources for participants. Unlike others, this event will be entirely driven by representatives of the patient community themselves, which will result in tangible learning outcomes.

As the only European-level cross-disease patient organisation, EPF has the unique position of linking patient communities across the Union with EU developments in policy and practice. This Congress will provide the opportunity to join forces and move forward on much needed policies and practices.

“Our next strategic plan (2021-2025) brings coherence to the fragmented picture on patient involvement by developing principles and a framework based on the lived experience of the patient voice.” says EPF Executive Director Usman Khan.

“The best way to gear the system towards the needs of patients is by involving patients from the very start. If new policies are being implemented, a paradigm shift is needed” says Hans Kluge (WHO Regional Director for Europe nominee and EPF Congress ambassador), in recent interview.

Over the next three days EPF looks forward to welcoming total of 330 participants, including a high-level Advisory Board of 12 ambassadors, 69 speakers and a wide range of health stakeholders, ranging from patient representatives, regulatory and HTA experts healthcare professionals and experts, national organisations, representatives from industry, academia, and local governments.

For any press enquiries during or after the event please contact Emily Bowles at emily.bowles@eu-patient.eu