BSEcho2021: Virtual equals more accessible

BSEcho2021 will run from October 11 to 16 – and I'm already excited!

So often when working in industry, we do not get to attend the scientific sessions during conference. Don't get me wrong, I have always enjoyed delegates visiting the exhibition stand during the scientific session period – it is a usually a quieter time, meaning it provides more time for demonstrations and relaxed conversations – but it always meant I could not attend the scientific sessions.

COVID-19 and the move to virtual conference has brought a sea change. The virtual environment and schedule mean everyone can attend as many sessions as they like, and last year I took full advantage.

It is always a joy to listen to speakers like Cathy West and learn new methods, and what a difference it makes to be able to discuss the session content with delegates afterwards.

The 2021 conference schedule is just as exciting as last year’s. There is so much going on: we will be able to sit in on six-days of live sessions, as well as access a wealth of pre-recorded content.

From the very first session, which kicks off with congenital heart disease, we see a high caliber of topics being covered, and it’s good to see athlete’s heart getting a session.

Looking back to last year: who remembers the Young Investigator of the Year and the effectiveness of PoCUS in patient care management in critical care? Following on from that, I am sure this year’s Echocardiography in the ICU session will be well attended, and spark plenty of discussion. In terms of the pre-recorded sessions, my first 'plays' will be cardio-oncology and the review of the right heart.

There is so much to learn, from such a great range of sessions at this year’s conference – so I hope to see you at BSEcho2021!

Ms Maureen Gardner, Clinical Product Lead, International, Change Healthcare and Industry Representative, British Society of Echocardiography

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