Introduction to InnoThyroGen Patient Education Serbia
On 11 June 2025, the Forum of Patients of Serbia organised an internal education session in Belgrade, bringing together representatives from various patient organisations. As part of this gathering, Ana Keler, President of the Forum of Patients of Serbia, presented the organisation’s involvement in the InnoThyroGen Horizon Europe Project.
This session was designed to strengthen communication between patient communities and the scientific aspects of thyroid disease research, ensuring that patients remain active contributors to innovation and healthcare transformation.
About the Event: Strengthening Patient Voices Through InnoThyroGen Patient Education Serbia
The session titled “Patient education – Lighting the path to change” was developed specifically for representatives of patient associations. Its main focus was to raise awareness about thyroid diseases, emphasise the importance of patient voices in research and innovation, and foster a more collaborative environment among patient groups.
By creating a safe and informative setting, the Forum of Patients of Serbia enabled participants to better understand how their engagement contributes to ongoing scientific efforts, including those carried out within the InnoThyroGen project.
Key Insights Presented During InnoThyroGen Patient Education Serbia
Throughout the session, Ana Keler introduced the role of the Forum of Patients of Serbia within the InnoThyroGen consortium. She explained how the organisation contributes to communication, patient engagement, and the broader dissemination of project activities.
The presentation also highlighted:
- the growing importance of patient perspectives in shaping research priorities
- the need for closer collaboration between patient associations and scientific partners
- opportunities for improved knowledge sharing within Serbian patient communities
These topics opened meaningful discussions and encouraged participants to reflect on the next steps for empowering patient roles in healthcare and research.
Usage & Results: Impact of InnoThyroGen Patient Education Serbia
During the internal session, information about the InnoThyroGen project was directly shared with approximately 30 representatives of patient groups and organisations. This ensured that key messages reached a wide network of individuals who regularly interact with thyroid patients.
As a result, several positive outcomes emerged:
- Participants gained a clearer understanding of the Forum’s involvement in the project.
- The session opened space for further discussion and planning of initiatives aimed at strengthening patient engagement.
- The event contributed to greater visibility of InnoThyroGen among Serbian patient communities.
- It sparked new conversations about the future role of patients in similar EU-funded initiatives and national health efforts.
Overall, the activity successfully improved awareness of the project and encouraged more active participation of patient representatives in InnoThyroGen’s mission.
Conclusion
The patient education session in Belgrade demonstrated how meaningful dialogue between patient associations and research projects can drive real change. By sharing knowledge, encouraging collaboration, and highlighting the value of patient experiences, InnoThyroGen Patient Education Serbia continues to support stronger and more connected patient communities.
Stay Tuned
Stay tuned for more updates as the InnoThyroGen project continues to connect researchers, clinicians, and patient communities across Europe. Follow us on LinkedIn, X (Twitter), Facebook and Instagram for the latest news and upcoming activities.
