To mark International Allied Health Professions Day, the Allied Health Services Directorate organised its eighth Annual Scientific Conference, themed “Synergizing Care: A Contemporary Blueprint for Connected Health Services”.
The conference brought together professionals from 20 different professions and four other categories of workers who contribute to patient care. The aim was to draw on their experience and research to identify concrete changes that could further improve health services and the patient experience.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Health Ian Borg said that the day was an opportunity not only to celebrate the work of these professionals, but also for the Government to hear directly from them.
“We are celebrating the work of 20 different professions and four other categories of workers who make an important contribution to patient care every day. Today, we are here to listen to them and decide together on the changes we can make to further improve the experience of both professionals and patients,” said the Deputy Prime Minister.
During the conference, professionals took part in interactive sessions focused on improving services and assessing how the workforce can be better prepared to meet the needs of tomorrow’s health service. The discussions provided an opportunity for professionals to share their experiences and propose solutions grounded in the realities they encounter every day.
Director of the Allied Health Services Directorate Maria-Louisa Busuttil said, “We were fortunate that this national conference gave us the opportunity to come together and discuss the findings of various scientific projects, while also developing recommendations that we will submit to the Ministry so that, together, we can continue improving services. We also worked to secure European funding, which enabled us to bring in international expertise to further support our professionals in their work.”
Global Performance Coach Iraïs Browaeys, who participated in the conference through Erasmus+ funding, also emphasised the importance of those who dedicate their time to caring for others being mindful of their own wellbeing, enabling them to continue delivering the best possible service with dedication.
“It was a privilege to be here with professionals who give so much every day to care for others. It is important that, while caring for patients, they also care for themselves and one another, especially when the pace of work and life is demanding,” said Browaeys.
The recommendations developed during the conference will be discussed with the health sector’s leadership, with the aim of translating professionals’ ideas and experience into concrete action. This forms part of ongoing efforts to build a more modern, efficient health service focused on patients’ needs.
