Why you can’t miss this year’s World Hospital Congress
The World Hospital Congress is where healthcare leaders from around the world come together to share ideas, learn from each other, and build new connections. Hosted each year by the International Hospital Federation (IHF) and a local partner, Congress is a unique opportunity to explore what’s working in healthcare, what’s not, and what’s next.
Last year’s Congress in Rio de Janeiro welcomed over 1,250 participants from 65 countries and territories. Over several days, attendees took part in a wide range of activities, including presentations, panel discussions, workshops, networking events, hospital visits and more.
A packed programme with something for everyone
The World Hospital Congress is designed to be useful and engaging for people in different roles and sectors across healthcare. The plenary sessions feature internationally recognized speakers who provide thought-provoking insights into the biggest challenges and opportunities for today’s healthcare executives. The programme also includes interactive sessions, and opportunities to share and discuss the hot topics advancing excellence in patient care and hospital management.
Last year, more than 200 speakers led over 50 sessions, covering topics like innovation, leadership, health system improvement, sustainable healthcare, and workforce development. There were also more than 230 poster presentations, showcasing practical projects and good practices from hospitals around the world.
“The World Hospital Congress was an enriching and inspiring experience, reinforcing the power of global collaboration to address the most pressing challenges in healthcare. The exchange of knowledge and the connection with such dedicated professionals will undoubtedly contribute to advancing our practices and promoting safer and more effective patient care. The Congress is such an important space for dialogue and innovation.”
Celebrating excellence and innovation on a global stage
The Congress is also a place to highlight and celebrate success stories from around the world. One of the highlights is the IHF Awards Gala, where over 300 healthcare leaders gather to recognize outstanding projects that are making a difference in their communities. It’s a moment to celebrate and appreciate remarkable achievements and excellence in the global healthcare community.
“It was a great opportunity for us to learn best practices and understand more the importance of global networking of healthcare institutions and especially that all are encouraged to promote sustainability programmes in healthcare delivery”.
Another exciting part of congress is the i-to-i Innovation Hub, which offers an exclusive space to connect with fellow innovators, exchange insights with healthcare leaders, and showcase emerging solutions that are shaping the future of hospital care. In the i-to-i Innovation Hub and exhibition area, participants can see new tools and technologies in action and speak directly with innovators and solution providers.
Building connections
Every year, the post congress survey feedback illustrates that one of the most valuable aspects of the Congress is meeting people and the connections that come with it. Whether it’s a networking event or a conversation over coffee, there are countless opportunities to connect with peers from around the world.
“The most positive aspect of the World Hospital Congress was the opportunity to engage with a truly diverse and international community of healthcare professionals. It fostered an environment for exchanging innovative ideas, best practices, and emerging trends in healthcare, all while emphasizing the importance of collaboration across borders to tackle shared global health challenges, such as sustainability and resilience.”
Attendees also have the opportunity to visit local hospitals and institutions. This year we are offering exclusive tours of some of the most renowned hospitals, healthcare facilities, and research centres in Switzerland and France. It’s a chance to see how different systems operate and learn from each other in a hands-on way.
Looking ahead
Whether you’re attending for the first time or returning, the goal of the World Hospital Congress is the same: to connect, to learn, and to drive progress in healthcare together.
As we prepare for the 48th World Hospital Congress in Geneva, we invite you to be part of this global exchange. More than just a conference, it’s an international platform for collaboration and leadership in global healthcare. Book your ticket now and don’t miss this unique opportunity!
*Quotes provided come from last year’s participants
