Exploring Innovations in Health Communication: Sano at the 1st International Congress in Barcelona

Explore key takeaways from the 1st Health Communication Congress in Barcelona and a visit to the iconic Sant Pau Hospital.

The inaugural International Congress on Health Communication, hosted by Vall d’Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus with the support of the European University Hospital Alliance (EUHA), recently took place in Barcelona. This groundbreaking event brought together global leaders and experts to discuss the future of communication in healthcare. Among the attendees were representatives from Sano, Anna Partyka and Jan K. Argasiński, who actively participated in the congress.

A Focus on Transforming Health Communication

The congress explored pivotal themes shaping the future of health communication, including:

Communication strategies in healthcare policy.

The dynamics between medical institutions, media, and journalists.

Developing innovative narratives and combating the spread of fake news.

The integration of artificial intelligence in communication workflows.

Crisis management approaches and enhancing patient participation in information dissemination.

The agenda featured engaging sessions, interactive workshops, and numerous networking opportunities. Attendees delved into real-world challenges and innovative solutions, guided by some of the most esteemed figures in health communication worldwide.

Lessons Learned from the Pandemic

A central theme of the congress was the analysis of communication lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic. Participants discussed the urgent need to reimagine how health and medical information is conveyed to the public, emphasizing the importance of transparency, accuracy, and ethical considerations. These discussions aimed to pave the way for improved communication practices, not only for hospitals but also for the broader health communication community.

Building a Framework for Ethical and Effective Communication

The congress underscored the critical role of storytelling, technology, and interdisciplinary collaboration in building modern, effective, and ethical communication strategies. This event marked a significant step forward in the collective effort to reshape health communication practices for the better.

A Step Towards Better Health Communication

The 1st International Congress on Health Communication was not just a conference; it was a call to action for the healthcare sector to prioritize effective communication as a cornerstone of public health. Sano’s participation highlights our commitment to being part of this transformative journey.

Beyond the Congress: Exploring Sant Pau Hospital in Barcelona

In addition to participating in the congress, Anna Partyka and Jan K. Argasiński took the opportunity to visit the Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, a stunning architectural gem and UNESCO (1997) World Heritage site in Barcelona. The origins of this remarkable facility date back to 1401, when six existing hospitals were merged to create a single institution. Over time, additional structures were added, and today the complex consists of a main building, designated for administrative purposes, and 27 pavilions. All the buildings are interconnected by underground corridors designed for transporting patients. The entire campus is surrounded by breathtaking gardens, making it a true oasis of history and beauty.

The hospital, designed in a stunning Art Nouveau style, continued to admit patients until 2009, when a new hospital building was inaugurated. Since then, the historic buildings have been undergoing renovations and are now open to visitors. These architectural masterpieces offer a glimpse into the past while serving as a cultural and educational resource. Photos of this magnificent site can be seen below.