Piloted in 2017, the IPPOSI Patient Education Programme is currently in its third edition. Designed to empower patients and patient advocates to work effectively with health research and technology partners, agencies, and authorities, this programme is recommended for anyone who is interested in patient advocacy work. The programme is an 11-month commitment with three modules which are typically delivered in a blended approach, with online content created by our educational partners and three face-to-face workshops. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the course is currently taking place exclusively online. According to Mandy Daly, a programme graduate, “The Patient Education Programme is a must for individuals who are considering participating in health-related public and patient involvement (PPI) activities and provides a solid foundation across a broad spectrum of topics.”
In addition to curated educational content, the IPPOSI Patient Education Programme provides an opportunity for patients and anyone interested in patient advocacy activities to network and build relationships with one another. Once a student graduates from the education programme, they are able to join the Irish EUPATI National Platform (ENP). EUPATI National Platforms have been established across Europe to help people on a national level explore patient education and involvement challenges. Supported by IPPOSI, the Irish ENP works together to identify training opportunities and to support patients to become actively involved in research and development. IPPOSI also facilitates a PPI matchmaking process for Irish ENP members. “The comprehensive, relevant, and expertly delivered education content of the IPPOSI Patient Education Programme and the networking and continued education opportunities of the ENP were instrumental in creating a wide array of PPI opportunities for me, both within and outside the research arena,” Daly continued.
For Robert Joyce, an ENP member and EUPATI fellow, the ENP has been “the bedrock” of his patient advocacy. “Everyone has the common goal of improving patient involvement in research, which is achieved by sharing our collective experiences and honing our skills with quality training and resources.”
To learn more about the IPPOSI Patient Education Programme, click here.
