Kidney International Reports® (KIR) has recently published, as an article-in-press, insightful results from a comprehensive survey conducted by the ISN Western Europe Regional Board. The study explores the evolving preferences of nephrology professionals regarding scientific conference formats, evaluating in-person, virtual, and hybrid options in the context of post-pandemic realities.
Titled “Nephrology Health Professionals’ Perspectives on Their Preferred Modality for Scientific Meetings: Balancing Affordability, Sustainability, and Peer Engagement – An International Society of Nephrology Survey,” this pioneering article is among the first of its kind in the field of nephrology. It uniquely addresses a timely and relevant topic: how medical professionals wish to engage with scientific communities in an increasingly digital world.
The survey gathered responses from 499 nephrology professionals representing 102 countries, providing a rich and diverse dataset. Findings clearly indicate a dominant preference for hybrid meeting formats, which participants praised for offering the greatest balance between interactivity, cost-effectiveness, travel flexibility, and global inclusiveness.
While hybrid events were favored for their potential to democratize access to science, the article also sheds light on persistent challenges. Respondents highlighted ongoing economic and technological barriers, especially in low-resource settings, that continue to limit equitable participation. These disparities underscore the need for further innovations in event delivery and the importance of infrastructural support to ensure fair access across all regions.
The article calls for continuous evaluation and policy adjustments to align future conference formats with the needs and realities of the global nephrology community. As the scientific landscape evolves, embracing hybrid solutions may prove critical in ensuring broader participation and fostering meaningful global collaborations in kidney care and research.