Plenary
Programme sponsors
Opening Plenary
Afternoon Plenary
Helping Politicians Understand the Importance of Pathology
Helping Politicians Understand the Importance of Pathology
Plenary
With the Department of Health & Social Care, the NHS, and the wider health ecosystem under immense and often competing pressures, it is critical that that the voice of pathology is heard, understood, and supported, in what is a crowded field of organisations seeking influence.
To continue to place pathology ever-higher on the political agenda, there is an ongoing need for the sector – collectively and individually - to demonstrate alignment with government ambitions and priorities; to position pathology and the sector as a constructive partner, with solutions to the challenges policymakers face; and to evidence the tangible impact pathology has across health pathways and to peoples’ lives across the UK.
Policymakers and stakeholders understandably have a vast range of interests, issues they want to campaign for, and concerns they want to articulate. Equally, politicians and other stakeholders will have varying degrees of knowledge of pathology. Unpacking what the sector does and finding ways of bringing to life the achievements and results of those who work in pathology is key to helping politicians understand its importance.
Actively seeking conversations with policymakers and opportunities to showcase why this is such a vital sector for the UK is crucial – and it’s something everything working in pathology can play a part in.Speakers
Simon Darby
The impact and implications for patients and pathology services of the infected blood inquiry
The impact and implications for patients and pathology services of the infected blood inquiry
Plenary
Abstract
This session examines the wide-ranging implications of the Infected Blood Inquiry (IBI) for both patients and pathology services, with a particular emphasis on policy and system-level responses. It begins with a concise overview of the Inquiry’s history and its key recommendations, focusing on Recommendation 7, which advocates for strengthened patient safety measures in blood transfusion practices.
The presentation will outline strategic initiatives including Transfusion 2024 and the subsequent Transfusion Transformation programme, both designed to modernise transfusion services and enhance system resilience. Innovations such as the SHOT Transfusion Safety Standards and the My Transfusion app will be highlighted for their role in promoting transparency and embedding patient and public involvement throughout the transfusion pathway.
The session concludes with lessons learned and practical insights for policymakers, commissioners, and regulators to help shape a safer, more accountable future in transfusion medicine.
Speakers
