Patients, their families, and lung disease experts will exchange perspectives on vital health topics during the ATS 2023 International Conference at the 17th annual ATS Public Advisory Roundtable Patients & Experts Forum. This free event is open to the public and will take place on Saturday, May 20, from 10 a.m.–2 p.m. ET at the Renaissance Washington DC Downtown Hotel, Rock Creek Ballrooms A–C . This year’s theme is “Pulmonary Health Care: Access for All.”

“While access to care has been a prominent topic for many years, the COVID-19 pandemic brought issues related to health equities and disparities to the forefront of public consciousness. Hearing patients’ perspectives on these challenges is essential for creating solutions,” said ATS President Gregory P. Downey, MD, ATSF.

From 10 a.m.–12 p.m., six speakers will present their specialized insights, compiled data, and applicable best practices to educate attendees on relevant issues in patient access. These presentations will be followed by a question-and-answer session. The topics include:

• Navigating Access to Care: Getting What You Need, Sonye Danoff, MD, PhD
• Resources for Patients in Accessing Therapies, Anne O’Donnell, MD
• Including Diverse Populations in Clinical Trials, Julie Barta, MD
• Patient Perspective, Rick Bressler
• Pediatric Caregivers: What You Need to Know, Maureen Josephson, DO
• Role of Government in Patient Access to Care, Saqib Baig, MD.

The afternoon will feature breakout sessions with lung disease specialists in multiple areas, allowing patients and families to have one-on-one conversations with experts.

“The breakout sessions are an excellent opportunity to connect patients and clinicians in an informal, personal, and interactive setting that’s beneficial for everyone,” Dr. Downey explained.

To RSVP for the Patients & Experts Forum, email [email protected] by Friday, May 12. This will be an in-person-only event. Please note that proof of COVID-19 vaccination status will be required for entry.