A joint symposium of the European Society and the Slovak Society of Cardiology was held during the 14th Congress of the Slovak Society of Cardiology (SSC) on 8-9 October 2009.
The session focused on a publication by the ESC in 2008, aimed to present and discuss the ESC Guidelines for Acute and Chronic Heart Failure. The SSC endorsed, translated and distributed the Guidelines for all its members and relevant physicians.
Four presentations made up the symposium, and the format was two presentations in English, followed by two in local language accompanied by English slides. Prof. Michel Komajda (ESC) gave a lecture on the implementation of ESC guidelines; Prof. Teresa McDonagh (ESC) spoke about natriuretic peptides in diagnosis, prognostication and treatment of heart failure; Prof. Jan Murin (SSC) focused on new pharmacotherapy, and Prof. Eva Goncalvesová (SSC) dealt with management of a refractory heart failure.
The discussion was greatly enlightening and perhaps the most important and fruitful aspect of the conference. The creation of heart failure units was the main topic during the discussion. Clinical experience has demonstrated a strong need for heart failure units/departments in the continual and effective care of heart failure patients. Questions arose regarding how to finance such units, and provide the health care professionals and personnel needed.
The potential role, responsibilities, and competencies of nurses also entered the debate. The differences in conditions and regulations for the foundation of heart failure units across Europe are evident. An advisable statement was then made suggesting that ESC authorities could provide a frame for an integral uniform care to heart failure patients to support acceptance of the idea by the local regulatory institutions.
The initiative of a joint symposium between the ESC and the National Society was very much appreciated by the SSC. The Slovak Society of Cardiology looks forward to further scientific and expert discussions, as they will provide future insight into the improvement of cardiac patients’ care.
Members of SSC welcome the idea of joint symposia as it gives the opportunity to share opinions and experience with the top leaders in Europe.
Read more about the ESC - National Societies joint sessions initiative here