World Day of the Sick 2026
Columna Medica, Łask, Poland | 8 February 2026
The WPA in collaboration with the Patient Safety Foundation Poland, organised an event on 8 February 2026 in Columna Medica, Łask, Poland, to mark the World Day of the Sick. The gathering brought together patient advocates, healthcare professionals, and partners committed to strengthening patient safety, promoting compassionate care, and supporting the wellbeing of people living with illness.
The event highlighted the importance of placing patients and their needs at the centre of healthcare systems while promoting awareness of key health issues that affect quality of life and safety in care.
During the opening remarks, Jolanta Bilińska, President of the Patient Safety Foundation Poland and Member of the Board of Directors of the World Patients Alliance, reflected on the origins of the World Day of the Sick, established by Pope John Paul II and observed annually on 11 February. The day serves as a reminder of the importance of solidarity with people living with illness, particularly those who are vulnerable, isolated, or in need of compassionate support. The event emphasised the responsibility of healthcare systems and societies to ensure safe, respectful, and patient-centred care.
A key session focused on sleep health and sleep disorders, an important but often overlooked component of overall health and wellbeing. Dr. Bożena Adamkiewicz, Regional Neurology Consultant, delivered a lecture on the diagnosis and management of sleep disorders, including insomnia. The session explored the physiology of sleep, common barriers to healthy sleep patterns, and the potential health consequences of untreated sleep disorders, such as impacts on cardiovascular health, cognitive functioning, and mental wellbeing. Participants discussed evidence-based approaches to improving sleep health, including behavioural strategies and clinical interventions.
The programme also highlighted the importance of holistic wellbeing, communication, and patient engagement in healthcare. Sessions addressed practical techniques for stress reduction and relaxation, recognising that emotional wellbeing and effective communication are key elements of compassionate and safe patient care.
The event provided a valuable opportunity for participants to exchange knowledge, share experiences, and strengthen collaboration around patient safety, prevention, and patient-centred care. It also reinforced the role of patient organisations in promoting health literacy, supporting patients and families, and advocating for healthcare systems that prioritise safety, dignity, and quality of care.
As part of the event, special recognition was given to individuals and organisations that have contributed to advancing patient safety and supporting the work of the Patient Safety Foundation Poland and its partners.
The World Patients Alliance remains committed to working with partners globally to promote safe, equitable, and compassionate healthcare systems, and to ensure that the voices and experiences of patients remain central in shaping healthcare policies and practices.
