4 minute read
Conference Speaker Q&A
Registrations are still open for the NZ Respiratory Conference (NZRC), to be held this 5 and 6 November, at Te Papa, Wellington. This year’s conference theme is ‘Building the Foundation for Better Breathing’ after the release of the 2020 Adolescent and Adult Asthma Guidelines, the revised Child Asthma Guidelines, and the soon to be released first-ever New Zealand COPD Guidelines.
The Foundation caught up with three of our conference speakers, Amy Chan, Sarah Mooney, and Noelene Rapana, as they filled us in on what they are looking forward to this conference, and what gems they have to share with us with their upcoming presentations.
Advertisement
What are you most looking forward to about the NZ Respiratory Conference 2020?
Amy - It has been a challenging time for everyone with the events of COVID-19 affecting everyone’s day-to-day and adjusting to the ‘new normal’. I am most looking forward to having discussions with other world leading experts in the field of respiratory health and to have the opportunity to share the work we have all been doing in the last year or two.
Sarah - I’m looking forward to updating myself with the latest thinking and especially developments relating to New Zealand respiratory health. Hopefully the conference will be in-person and I can also network with colleagues!
Noelene - I always enjoy learning about the new updates in respiratory health and learning about what’s going on around the country. Connecting with others in this field is also a highlight.
The world of respiratory health is a fast-moving one – what topics are you most looking forward to hearing more about?
Amy – Respiratory health is more important and pertinent than ever with the events of COVID-19, which are likely to disproportionately affect those with pre-existing respiratory conditions – more than those without these conditions. I am particularly looking forward to hearing about the updates in management in asthma and in COPD, and how COVID-19 may affect the management of these conditions, including hearing about innovative ways that we can adopt to help patients self-manage their health in these times.
Sarah – Any and all New Zealand specific topics which influence health of Kiwis are of interest. It’s so important we consider influences, trends and management and are responsive to our unique population.
Noelene – I will personally enjoy listening to the updates on the Asthma and COPD guidelines and think about how we can teach them in Primary Health. After attending the European Respiratory Services Congress in Spain last year I’ve realised just how amazing New Zealanders are in the world of respiratory health.
As a presenter, what gems do you hope to impart that will make an impact in the everyday lives of respiratory patients?
Amy – I am presenting on the management of asthma in the digital realm, which focuses specifically on the role of digital technology and online innovations in the management of asthma. I hope that by sharing my experiences and research in this area, it will stimulate ideas and discussions about new ways that patients can manage their health and the tools that we can use to ensure patients can make the best possible use of the resources they have to aid in the management of their health.
Sarah – Sedentary lifestyles are hazardous to all aspects of your health. We have become a seated society with multiple barriers to moving. However … ‘just move’ … any and all activity counts!
Noelene – How by being open to using different models of health can impact dramatically on a person’s wellbeing. It’s definitely time for change. Don’t be afraid to approach me and ask questions, I’m here to share!
For more information or to register visit NZRC2020.com
Virtual Option for NZRC!
Due to the ongoing situation with COVID-19, we can now confirm that NZRC will form a virtual conference if an in-person event is unable to go ahead due to COVID-19 event restrictions.
If a virtual conference were to eventuate, all registered attendees will be given the opportunity to transfer their registration to the virtual conference or be offered a full refund. Rest assured, whether you attend the in-person or virtual conference, you will still be able to access all the sessions outlined in the NZRC programme, and gain all CME credits and CPD points on offer.
GPs can claim 10 CME RNZCGP credits Nurses can claim 10 professional development hours Physiotherapists can claim 10 professional development hours Pharmacists can claim 10 Group 1 ENHANCE points
Earlybird rates have also been extended indefinitely, with a full conference pass now only $420.
We are pleased to offer a further reduced rate for a full conference pass to all regional societies wishing to attend. For more information on this, or to register as an exhibitor please contact:
