Health equity and limited access to healthcare are among the key challenges for patients in CEE.

In a collaborative effort with Poland's Healthcare Education Institute, we introduced a new Legal Toolkit this year. This toolkit, tailored specifically for patient advocates in the CEE, is the outcome of a comprehensive analysis of the legal and policy frameworks across six CEE countries. The toolkit includes practical tools for effective advocacy, aiming to inform, inspire, and empower patient advocates. This initiative is expected to strengthen their role as active contributors in the healthcare sector.

On 21 November, during our “Access to Care” Policy Event, we introduced the Toolkit to over 70 attendees. The audience comprised patient advocacy leaders, experts, and colleagues from the region. The event was a platform for patient leaders to dig into real-life case studies, exploring both apparent and concealed opportunities to shape the environment and engage in impactful advocacy.

Jakub Dvořáček, the Deputy Minister of Health of the Czech Republic, shared the best practice example of patient involvement in decision-making from the Czech Republic. The panel discussion provided insights from decision-makers, industry representatives, and patient advocates. The conversation revolved around the unique characteristics of our region, strategies to fortify multi-stakeholder collaboration, and ways to enhance patient participation in decision-making. The ultimate goal is to improve health equity, enhance healthcare access, and ultimately improve patient outcomes across the region.