October 19-20, 2024 | Cape Town, South Africa

The 2nd World Patients Conference took place on October 19-20, 2024, in Cape Town, South Africa, convening a global community of patients and healthcare stakeholders. This landmark event aimed to amplify the voice of patients through collaborative discussions and networking opportunities, allowing patient advocates and healthcare leaders to share insights on pressing health issues and advance patient-centered care worldwide.

This two-day hybrid conference welcomed both virtual and in-person participants, exemplifying a modern approach to global healthcare collaboration. The second day featured WPA’s African Regional Meeting under the theme “Strengthening the Patient Voice in Africa,” spotlighting the unique challenges and perspectives of patients and advocates across the African continent.

Over 1,000 delegates from 124+ countries registered in the event, including patient advocates, leaders of patient organizations, healthcare stakeholders, regulators, industry representatives, researchers, and caregivers. Notable attendees included representatives from major health organizations such as the World Health Organization, International Council of Nurses, International Hospital Federation, World Federation of Public Health Associations, World Medical Association, African Union Development Agency-NEPAD, Joint Commission International, among others.

The theme, “The Role of the Patient in a Changing World,” was particularly relevant in light of the global pandemic and rapid technological advancements. It highlighted the evolving role of patients as active partners in their healthcare journeys, decision-makers, advocates, and innovators in the digital age. The conference showcased patient resilience, contributions to healthcare advancements, and how technology empowers them to engage in their health more fully.

The program spanned a range of critical topics relevant to patients worldwide, including:
• Access to Healthcare
• Patient Engagement in Regulatory Issues
• Capacity Building & NextGen Patient Advocacy Leaders
• Self-Care
• Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare
• Social Media for Patient Organizations
• Patient Safety
• Patient-Centered Care: Supporting Healthcare Providers
• Caregiving
• Fundraising and Building Donor Support
• Strengthening the Patient Voice in Africa
• Advocacy: Understanding the Patient Advocacy Landscape
• Research and Data Collection for Evidence-Based Advocacy

In addition to impactful sessions, the conference hosted a global exhibition, where WPA members, patient advocates, and healthcare stakeholders showcased their services, programs, and initiatives to an international audience.

The 2nd World Patients Conference successfully concluded as a unique platform for advancing patient advocacy, fostering global networks, and driving meaningful progress in patient-centered healthcare. The World Patients Alliance extends its heartfelt thanks to all speakers, sponsors, and participants for their invaluable contributions. This conference has reinforced the importance of patients as essential partners in shaping the future of healthcare, and we look forward to building on this momentum to continue advocating for patient rights and quality healthcare worldwide.