Our annual Patient Organisation Networking Day will take place on Saturday 5 September. Join us as we discuss important topics on lung health with the ELF Patient Organisation Network and invited speakers.
Content Table
The ELF Patient Organisation Networking Day is an opportunity for members of the ELF Patient Organisation Network to connect, share knowledge and explore current challenges in respiratory health.
The 2026 event will take place on Saturday 5 September, aligned with the overall Congress theme “United for better breathing: partnership between patients, clinicians and researchers”.
This event will bring together patient organisations and healthcare professionals to connect, share experiences and learn from one another. Through panel discussions, patient perspectives and opportunities to exchange best practices, we will explore how to reduce barriers and strengthen collaborative working.
Together, we will consider what it means for patients to be equal partners in decision-making, addressing unmet needs and respiratory research. By encouraging open and constructive discussion, the event aims to support a shift towards more meaningful partnership between patients and professionals.
The day will conclude with shared commitments that support more effective, inclusive and impactful collaboration across the respiratory health community.
Each year, we invite patient representatives from organisations in the ELF network to contribute to the programme. This helps us learn from each other and be inspired by the experiences of peers from across Europe. If you have an example of work or activities relating to this year’s theme, we encourage you to get involved.
There are two ways you can formally share your experiences:
If you would like to contribute, please follow the instructions on the form to express your interest.
Apply hereAttendance is free, but registration is required to join online or in Barcelona, Spain. Registration is now open for in-person and online attendance.
Last year we explored topics relating to the theme: “Improving respiratory health – thinking globally, acting locally“. This event offered a space to reflect on global challenges and to learn from organisations that are responding in innovative ways, including local initiatives, national campaigns and international efforts. Participants also had the chance to explore how organisations can support their patient communities and strengthen respiratory health in a fast-changing world.
You can read more about the event and report on the event page, or watch the recording below:
ELF events and materials are free, so that everyone can access them. If you are able, we welcome donations to help us continue this support. We are grateful to all who contribute, helping people with lung conditions understand their health better and make their voices heard.
