Originally scheduled for 2023, the Israeli Pediatric Association Conference was postponed due to Operation “Iron Swords” and eventually held in February 2024.
The atmosphere at this year’s conference was different. The conference highlighted new perspectives on treating children returning from captivity, a challenge that no pediatrician in the world has ever faced before.
A particularly moving panel featured Prof. Itai Pessach, Prof. Gilat Livni, and Dr. Ayelet Rimon, who were at the forefront of treating children and adolescents returning from two months in Hamas captivity. They shared with the audience the immense difficulties, complex emotions, and invaluable experience they gained during that period.
A special exhibition showcased the story of one of Israel’s leading pediatricians, highlighting his unwavering dedication to rescuing, supporting, and treating war casualties.
A memorial wall honored two pediatricians who fell during the operation.
The conference served as a crucial platform for professional exchange, but more importantly, it fostered a profound human connection during these challenging times.
The large attendance underscored the deep need for such a gathering, both professionally and personally, and provided a glimmer of strength and hope for the participants to persevere in their vital roles amidst these difficult circumstances.
Photos: Harel Productions
On December 18, 2024, the annual conference of the Israeli Pediatric Association took place at Expo Tel Aviv. The conference, which has become a tradition, was titled “The Central Edition” of pediatric medicine in Israel. This year, the conference was held in collaboration with the Israeli Society for Clinical Pediatrics, the Department of Infectious Diseases, and the ENT Association, with the participation of approximately 1,000 specialists, residents, nurses, and pharmacists.
The conference focused on important and groundbreaking topics in the field of pediatric medicine and included lectures, workshops, simulations, and DEBATE sessions. It featured a plenary session and five halls operating in five parallel sessions, providing attendees with exposure to diverse and rich content.
The conference included 70 speakers from various fields and around 25 sponsoring companies. It was also honored by the presence of senior figures from the healthcare system and beyond. For everyone, the conference offered moments of hope, believing that one day things will improve.
