Brussels, 5 December 2007 - Over 100 policy makers, academia, patient and carers associations, World Health Organization (WHO) representatives and industry attend the 2nd annual Homecare Conference at the Residence Palace in Brussels.
The conference examined the situation of homecare in Europe in light of changing demographics, finances, and technology. It offered an opportunity to share and discuss experiences, best-practices, and strategies in order to improve the homecare system in Europe for the benefit of patients and carers.
The one-day event was hosted by Frieda Brepoels (Belgium, EPP-ED), John Bowis (UK, EPP-ED), Marian Harkin (Ireland, ALDE) and Miroslav Mikolasik (SK, EPP-ED) and organised jointly by the World Health Organization and Eucomed.
Frieda Brepoels, Member of the European Parliament, explains her involvement: "The EU needs to raise awareness about the opportunities homecare offers for Europe's healthcare systems. Our goal is to provide equal access to high quality care across Europe - data collection and exchanging of best practices are key in facilitating this exchange. That's where this conference plays an important role."
Maurice Wagner, Eucomed's Director General concludes, "Innovation in medical technology already contributes to substantial improvements in quality of life for disabled and older people as well as children on the institutional side. We are confident that medical technology can have a positive impact in providing patients with simplified yet high-quality care at home."
Eucomed is the Voice of the medical technology industry in Europe. Eucomed represents directly and indirectly 4500 designers, manufacturers and suppliers of medical technology used in the diagnosis, prevention, treatment and amelioration of disease and disability, including ATMPs. Small and medium sized companies make up more than 80% of this sector. The European medical technology industry invests some €3,8 billion in R&D and employs near to 435.000 highly skilled workers. The mission of Eucomed is to improve patient and clinician access to modern, innovative and reliable medical technology.
Mark Grossien
Communications Director
mark.grossien(at)eucomed(dot)be
+32 (0)2.775.92.24
