Dear ISBI Members and Friends,
As spring graces Sweden, I trust many of you are already enjoying the warmer and brighter weather.
From the ISBI perspective, there are numerous activities underway:
2024 ISBI/BBA Congress Preparations: We are pleased to report that preparations for the ISBI/BBA Congress are progressing well. With a record-breaking submission of 788 abstracts and the engagement of several distinguished speakers, we are confident that the Congress will offer an enriching scientific program. The agenda includes engaging plenaries, symposia, interactive sessions, and poster rounds. This year, in collaboration with the BBA, we anticipate many fruitful interactions among the members of the international Burn Community.
Registration and Discounts: Please take note of the preferential rates available for members, including an early bird discount valid until 31 May. I encourage you to visit our website to explore available financial assistance to the meeting.
New Initiatives: We are excited to introduce the ISBI Audit Program, an interactive initiative aimed at disseminating burn care knowledge globally. For more details and to stay updated, please visit ISBI Burn Center Audit Pilot Program. The response to this program has exceeded our expectations, with over 60 applications received for auditor training. The official launch is scheduled for early 2025.
Collaborations and Outreach: Over the past six months, ISBI has continued to collaborate with NGOs and other organizations dedicated to burn care. Notable activities include partnerships with Interburns in Senegal and Physicians for Peace in Tanzania, with burn care courses conducted in both Turkey and Brazil.
Future Meetings: We are currently seeking proposals to host regional meetings in 2025 and 2027, as well as the main congress in 2028.
Leadership Opportunities: The upcoming meeting in Birmingham this August will see the appointment of new officers for the upcoming term. Vacancies include the ISBI Secretary and several regional representatives, specifically from regions 1, 2, 3 (two vacancies), 4, and 6. Nominations should be directed to the Chair of the Nominating Committee, Dr. Cioffi. Please email nominations to Michael Serghiou at serghiou62@gmail.com.
Governance Updates: Our Mission and Bylaws have been revised and are set for adoption during the General Assembly in Birmingham. The updated documents can be accessed on our website.
Editorial Transition: We warmly welcome Dr. Lee Cancio from Texas as the new editor of BURNS and extend our gratitude to the outgoing Editor, Dr. Steve Wolf, for his commendable service.
I eagerly look forward to meeting many of you in Birmingham.
With warm regards,
Folke Sjoberg, MD
ISBI President