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As healthcare faces unprecedented challenges, the role of patients as advocates, decision-makers, and collaborators is more crucial than ever. The event provided a global platform to discuss the evolving role of patients in healthcare systems, which are being reshaped by technological advancements, medical innovations, and shifting health priorities. In October the World Patient Alliance (WPA) partnered with The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) to host the 2nd World Patients Conference. Centered around the theme “The Role of Patients in the Changing World,” the conference gathered over 1,000 participants, including patients, advocates, healthcare professionals, policymakers, and international organizations from across the globe. Reflecting on the success of the conference, Andrew Spiegel , Chair of WPA, remarked: “Patients are at the core of the healthcare system, and their voices must be heard. The conference provided an invaluable platform to share their experiences and collectively work toward advocating for positive changes in healthcare. The global participation and support reaffirm our belief that patient-centered advocacy is essential for better healthcare outcomes.” The key focus discussed during the conference was the role of patient advocates in universal health coverage. Approximately a half of the world’s population lacks access to essential healthcare according to the WHO. In populations where healthcare is accessible, the quality of care comes into question as it is fragmented. The realisation of universal healthcare necessitates a paradigm shift from ‘disease-oriented’ to ‘person-centered’ health systems. A renewed emphasis on integrated, ‘people-centered’ service delivery is crucial to reaching underserved and marginalized populations and achieving true health equity. The Conference featured a robust agenda addressing key issues for the global patient community. Notable topics included ‘Access to Healthcare’, ‘Patient Engagement in Regulatory Issues’, ‘Capacity Building for Next- Generation’ ‘Patient Advocacy Leaders’, ‘Self-Care’, ‘Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare’, ‘Social Media for Patient Organisations’, and ‘Patient Safety’ . A standout highlight was the unveiling of Patient Stories Books, specifically designed for children to raise awareness and educate them on patient safety from an early age. The programme was packed with global experts and organisation that Dr Ames Dhai from the World Medical Association and South African Medical Reach Council, Vanessa Msengezi from the African Union Development Agency, Dr Anas Nofal fromAxios and Dr David Nhamya fromNDA Uganda. In addition, WPA hosted its Second African Regional Meeting , where patient leaders from across Africa discussed regional challenges and opportunities in healthcare. The session reinforced the importance of patient-centered approaches in Africa as the risk of harm to patients is higher than in developed countries. "We must prioritise patient safety in Africa. By investing in training, infrastructure, and quality improvement initiatives, we can create a healthcare system that is both accessible and safe”, shared Regina Kamoga (executive director of Community Health and Information Network, Uganda, and founding Director of WPA). There were many key takeaway points from conference, one of those was the introduction of strategies to help fill in the gap of healthcare services. The integration of Selfcare to treatment plans stood out to me as this is one of SADAG’s key activities which comes in the form of Support Groups and psycho-education. It should not be seen a replacement to healthcare professionals however it can be used as a tool for the maintenance of wellbeing, reduce the further burden of costs of treatment and fill in the gap where accessibility to primary healthcare is not easily accessible. The next fascinating discussion was Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the role it could play to streamline diagnosis and fill in the gaps where it could enhance care. “With the growth of AI, there is a potential to enhance healthcare services but again not replace the human touch of a healthcare provider”, said Dr Manjulaa Narasimhan from the WHO. Patient Safety had an excellent panel with speakers from the WHO, Joint Mission International USA and the Saudi Patient Safety Center. The session emphasised that patient care should include safety and respect, every time, everywhere. It was shared that to achieve the maximum possible reduction in avoidable harm due to unsafe healthcare, there should be a collective effort and a fundamental shift to prioritising patient safety and experience. By focusing on integrated, patient-centered care, we can ensure that all individuals, especially the most vulnerable, receive the highest quality of care. Hussain Jafri, CEO of WPA, added: “The overwhelming response to this event showcases the global commitment to patient advocacy. Our goal was to equip participants with the knowledge, tools, and inspiration to become more effective advocates for patient-centered care. This conference demonstrated the shared dedication of the global community in improving healthcare for all.” The 2nd World Patients Conference highlighted the growing role patients play in shaping the future of healthcare. From technological advancements to policy reform, patients are no longer passive recipients of care but are becoming active participants, advocates, and collaborators in the development of healthcare solutions. This year’s conference exemplified the power of collective patient voices in driving change and improving health outcomes worldwide. EXPLORING “THE ROLE OF PATIENTS IN THE CHANGING WORLD” EDITORIAL By Fatima Seedat Issue 5 | 2024 | MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS | 1 MHM