45th World Hospital Congress opens with statement on sustainability
9 November 2022
The 45th World Hospital Congress officially opened today with a statement from the International Hospital Federation about its commitment to raising awareness and support hospital managers to act to deliver sustainable healthcare.
Members of the global community of hospital and healthcare service providers at the IHF’s General Assembly voted to approve the statement “Addressing climate change as an integral part of healthcare delivery” (https://www.ihf-fih.org/about/statement-on-sustainability/).
On the release of this statement, Ronald Lavater, CEO of the IHF, underlined the critical need for sustainable healthcare.
“Climate change is already impacting human health and is increasingly recognized as the greatest threat to our future health. Hospitals and health systems are on the front line when it comes to responding to its consequences. We understand the impact. But we are only beginning to address the sector’s contribution to the problem. At the IHF, our members agree that we need to raise awareness, and act now, to manage our health systems in more sustainable ways.
Sustainable healthcare will reduce the burden on hospitals and health systems, and positively impact the quality of life, resilience, and wellbeing of the communities they serve. And that is why the IHF’s statement is a call to action to address climate change as an integral part of healthcare delivery.”
This statement has already received endorsement from several international organizations in the healthcare sector, including ISQua, International Alliance of Patients’ Organizations, International Network of Health Promoting Hospitals and Health Services, World Patients Alliance, and World Federation of Public Health Associations. Further endorsements are expected from organizations worldwide. The IHF’s Geneva Sustainability Centre was established earlier this year to support healthcare leaders in their journey towards sustainability. The IHF and Geneva Sustainability Centre will continue to seek endorsements and to increase the take-up of this statement.
Sustainability is the key theme at this year’s World Hospital Congress. Ahead of the opening ceremony, Deborah J. Bowen, IHF President and President and CEO of the American College of Healthcare Executives explained its importance:
“We are excited to bring the World Hospital Congress to the United Arab Emirates again and look forward to hearing about the efforts of our partners, the Dubai Health Authority, in fostering innovative and integrated care models and enhancing community engagement. When we come together in Dubai, our conversation will focus on driving solutions and extending the reach and impact of our work into the future. In establishing this environmental sustainability, we can better solve many of the problems that have persisted for the sector.”
The theme for this 45th World Hospital Congress is “Global Learnings, Local Actions: Sustainable Healthcare”. Dr Ramadan Al Blooshi, chairman of the organizing committee of the conference, said the global meet will also discuss the challenges and solutions of the healthcare workforce, ways and processes to ensure the wellbeing of healthcare providers, and the role of leadership in building and shaping successful health institutions.
In his opening speech, His Excellency Awadh Seghayer Al Ketbi, Director General of the Dubai Health Authority, said:
“Organizing and hosting such a conference reflects the capabilities of the UAE and Dubai, as an international hub for healthcare services. It also highlights Dubai’s excellence in the sector and is in accordance with the vision and guidance of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai.
The conference presents an important opportunity for participants and decision-makers to discuss potential solutions to overcome global health challenges and in particular to discuss sustainability in healthcare. It also poses an important opportunity to share experiences and expertise, strengthen relationships, and discuss new prospects for cooperation among all participants.”
With expected participation from more than 1,000 delegates from over 60 countries and territories, the World Hospital Congress is the premier event for global hospital and healthcare leaders. This year it takes place at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre (DWTC). Under the esteemed Patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Executive Council, the Dubai Health Authority is co-hosting the event.
Over three days, leaders and decision-makers in the healthcare community will share knowledge and good practices, exchange new ideas and innovations, and network with other senior executives. The 45th World Hospital Congress features over 30 plenary and parallel sessions; more than 200 renowned speakers; 150 poster presentations; 13+ industry exhibitors; the IHF Awards 2022 ceremony and gala dinner; and guided hospital visits to hospitals in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.