22nd EUSUHM Congress
Potsdam 2024
Sustainable Health in Children and Students - Reduce the GAP!
The European Union for School and University Health and Medicine (EUSUHM) executed the 22nd congress on “Sustainable Health in Children and Students - Reduce the GAP!” in Potsdam, Germany.
The conference focused on the disparities in health and healthcare access among European children and adolescents, taking into account the multiple impacts of the pandemic. It explored numerous health-related initiatives and programs carried out in learning environments, primarily focusing on educational institutions.
The program highlighted the following topics:
- Digital world and impact on children's and adolescents' wellbeing.
- Health monitoring and health promotion - data for action.
- Early childhood and early support.
- Mental health and well-being.
- Inclusion of children with specific needs.
- School absenteeism - cooperation needs between the educational and health sector.
- Qualification of school doctors and school nurses.
- School health services and activities.
The conference succeeded in sharing knowledge, experiences, and best practices around Europe and Canadian.
The 22nd EUSUHM conference took place in the Oberlin-Schule Potsdam, which is a dedicated educational and living space for children and adolescents with diverse disabilities. The location highly influenced an empathetic learning atmosphere. Quoting president Ellsaesser words' “Well-resourced school health services are essential for ensuring the health of children and adolescents. They support academic success by monitoring health, addressing needs and promoting mental well-being. They reach all children, regardless of social status.”
The EUSUHM conference and scientific program was set up in close cooperation with The German Federal Association of Doctors in the Public Health Service (BVÖGD), The German Association of Public Health (DGÖG) and The Swiss Association of Specialists in School Health Services (SCOLARMED); and also, as president Ellsaesser mentioned, it was the first time it was concluded in Germany.