As always, it was fantastic to see so many familiar faces coming by to say hello, and talk about some of the issues facing them, particularly after a couple years of virtual life!
IBMS felt bigger and better than ever, with even more exhibitors and talks that any other year. The programme included an all-star cast, with presentations from Lord Bethell, Professor Sir Jonathan Van-Tam (JVT), and closed by former RCPath President, Dr Suzie Lishman. Doris-Ann gave a brief overview of BIVDA activities to the corporate members meeting. The exhibition halls also gave us an opportunity to see some of the new products coming onto the diagnostic market and find out where the future may lie for innovative IVD products.
JVT’s talk was on the lessons identified during the Covid-19 pandemic. It focussed on the important nature of diagnostics in identifying patients early and preventing further spread by isolation, and how quickly the UK pulled together to develop treatments and preventative measures like vaccines. He also discussed that diagnostic capabilities are needed going forward to continue identifying variants of concern, and any future possible pandemics.
The quality of everyone’s stands was amazing and to be back in the hall with that familiar and thankfully not forgotten buzz! It was a pleasure to see what our companies have to offer and to meet some of you for the first time in person.
We have a lot of activity coming up in regulatory and procurement and we would encourage members to tell us what you need from us and we will endeavour to deliver.
We also had the opportunity to catch up with NHS colleagues who always give us a good sense on what is going on at the front line and we look forward to following up with their insights over the coming months.
We are already looking forward to the next IBMS Congress in 2023, and hope to see you all there, too!
