Advancing E-Health in Europe: Empowering Patients, Supporting Health Professionals
28th November 2012, Hotel Silken Berlaymont Brussels, Belgium

Health services across Europe are becoming increasingly unsustainable. However, with a growing range of innovative technologies available to health professionals and the people who use their services, there is a powerful imperative not just to change the way we do things, but also to change the way in which we all think about and maintain our health and well-being.

At the heart of this imperative is a fear that current health and support needs will not be met in the future, and that because of inappropriate lifestyles, there will be escalating challenges for health professionals. In this context, the harnessing of the true potential of eHealth and telehealth services, in appropriate ways, becomes a necessity.

The evidence regarding the benefits of eHealth and telehealth services, although sometimes over-hyped, is beginning to build and we ignore such evidence at our peril. It increasingly points to outcomes that may or may not always save costs, but eHealth and telehealth solutions are generally welcomed by all users because of their ability to develop greater health awareness amongst the people who use them and to provide them with a tool by which they can be in greater control of their own health. It follows that the people (patients) are generally more motivated, are better able to manage their medication or therapies, and are more likely to adopt and maintain healthier lifestyles.

Why you should attend?

High Profile Speakers

This symposium promises an internationally recognised line-up of leading figures and expert speakers who will offer an invaluable insight into the latest initiatives and developments in the field of e-health and medical technologies. As well as hearing key presentations, there will also be ample opportunity for delegates to engage in interactive discussions and debates.

Tackle the Key Issues

This symposium will focus on the opportunities presented by eHealth and telehealth solutions. Importantly it will look at the latest service developments from the points of view of both health professionals and as reported by service users. It will also tackle issues at the health and social care interface, including the way in which personal information is handled. It will follow and explore the challenging issues posed in the 2012 eHealth Task Force report on ‘Redesigning Health in Europe for 2020’ and offer clear pointers towards sustainable and ethical eHealth and telehealth business models - building on what is good about our health services today but facilitating the wider adoption of new service paradigms.

Networking

This symposium will also provide an invaluable opportunity to share best practice and network with expert speakers, practitioners and policy makers, from across Europe and beyond. There is ample networking time scheduled within the programme in order to support the exchange of ideas and encourage delegates to engage in thought-provoking topical debate. The symposium will conclude with a cocktail reception to facilitate further informal discussion and networking.

Who should attend?