President's message

The ISSPD 2021 congress Organizing Committee wishes to update all of our ISSPD friends and colleagues with a new and significant update regarding our ISSPD congress 11-13 October 2021. Given the continuing uncertainties related to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Organizing Committee decided that the congress will be held entirely in virtual format. As much as we would have preferred to meet in person, we believe that for the time being a virtual edition is safer for attendees, especially given the international nature of the congress and the uneven roll-out of vaccines across high, middle and lower income countries.

The virtual format represents, however, a great opportunity for a wider audience to benefit from the stellar scientific program we have put together. We are also working diligently to ensure a vibrant, interactive and lively format for the virtual delivery. Talks and posters will mostly be pre-recorded but live Q&A, chat functions and polls will be built in to allow for interaction and exchange. We are also considering facebook groups and in-person hubs to participate in the congress in various locations – all in the pursuit of still allowing for the exchange of kaleidoscope perspectives that forms the overarching theme of the congress.

All our keynote speakers and master clinicians are still in place, and we hope you will still join us; or consider joining us now given reduced registration rates associated with a virtual congress.

We hope to see you digitally in Oslo Monday - Wednesday 11 - 13 October 2021!

Carla Sharp, Ph.D.