Geneva, May 29, 2024 – Exciting news from the Seventy-seventh World Health Assembly! A new resolution has been adopted that highlights the importance of involving patients and communities in healthcare planning. This aims to make health systems more inclusive and responsive to everyone’s needs.
Key Focus Areas:
– Social Participation: Encourages public involvement in health planning to build trust and address health inequalities.
– Emergency Care Strategy: Plans to develop a global strategy for emergency care to improve responses to health crises.
– Mental Health Support: Approves enhanced mental health services, especially during emergencies.
These initiatives are all about making healthcare fairer, better prepared for emergencies, and more supportive of mental health.
What This Means for the EDS and HSD Community
Lara Bloom, the President and CEO of The Ehlers-Danlos Society, spoke at a related event in Geneva hosted by IAPO and The Synergist. As a key advocate, she emphasized the crucial role of patient organizations in achieving universal health coverage (UHC). Lara highlighted that patients’ voices are essential in shaping health policies that are truly relevant and effective.
For those affected by Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS) and hypermobility spectrum disorders (HSD), this is progress. Historically, these conditions have not been well represented in healthcare discussions, leading to gaps in care. Lara’s involvement ensures that the unique challenges faced by individuals with EDS and HSD are recognized and addressed.
By advocating for patient involvement, Lara is helping to improve awareness, diagnosis, and treatment options for the EDS and HSD community.
A Movement Towards Inclusive Healthcare
The session in Geneva also highlighted the need for better education of healthcare professionals about the importance of patient experiences. Lara made it clear: without patient input, healthcare systems miss out on crucial insights.
The Global Patient Movement Catalyst initiative focuses on supporting patient organizations through capability building, positioning, and funding. This initiative aims to create a global movement that brings together diverse patient experiences to drive meaningful change.
Looking Ahead
This resolution is a significant step towards a healthcare system that truly reflects the needs of all communities. Lara Bloom’s advocacy shows the power of patient organizations in creating an inclusive, empathetic, and effective healthcare system.
For The Ehlers-Danlos Society and other patient advocacy groups, this is a moment of hope and validation. It proves that patient voices are being heard and are instrumental in building a healthier, more equitable world.
For more information on the resolution and the role of patient organizations in UHC, you can read the full article on the World Health Organization’s website here. Watch Lara Bloom speaking at the The Global Patient Movement Catalyst event hosted by IAPO and The Synergist here.
