Dr Gareth Thompson along with colleagues and members of the CRG (Cardiac Research Group, PPI group) within the School of Nursing and Midwifery at QUB recently ran a conference acknowledging ‘World Heart Day’ (29th September 2024) at the Great Hall. The event delivered:
Evidence-based advice on improving heart health
- Details about the latest cardiac research at QUB
- Information from patient & carer-support organisations
- An insight into future requirements for cardiac research / innovation
- Raising awareness of effective PPI and an opportunity to join the CRG
- A health check-up (i.e., blood pressure, weight, and heart rate) and signposting to relevant support services
Approximately 100 delegates attended, comprising patients and carers / family members (majority); academics / researchers; healthcare professionals; and PPI members from the CRG. This event disseminated information about research and innovation in CVD prevention and treatment to a large group of stakeholders, with delegates also educated on the importance of effective PPI. Those interested in PPI were invited to join the CRG at QUB, which will enhance the quality of cardiac research conducted within the School of Nursing and Midwifery. The conference brought together patients, carers, professionals, and patient support groups, resulting in effective networking and improved patient support. The event was co-chaired by Dr Tracey McConnell and a PPI member, with the speakers comprising academics, healthcare professionals, industry representatives, and students. QUB staff supervised undergraduate nursing students when facilitating health assessments for delegates. Two patient support organisations were in attendance: Cardiomyopathy UK and Heart Failure Warriors Northern Ireland. The HSC R&D Division funding enabled the conference to be facilitated. The ‘CRG Heart Health’ conference will be run in conjunction with PPI members annually, which will support and educate patients, carers, and professionals on World Heart Day.
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