Tag Archive for: Tina Koukopoulou

EUROPSO Members Meeting Highlights – November 2024, Frankfurt

/in

The EUROPSO Members Meeting, held on November 16, 2024, in Frankfurt, Germany, brought together patients and patient advocates from the psoriasis community to reflect on 2024’s achievements and strategize for the future.

Key Topics Discussed

1. Reflections and Plans by Jan Koren
EUROPSO President Jan Koren opened the meeting with a comprehensive overview of the organization’s activities in 2024 and outlined plans for 2025, emphasizing the importance of continued collaboration and innovation within the psoriasis community.

2. Health Technology Assessment (HTA) Updates
David Trigos, EUROPSO Vice President, discussed the new EU Health Technology Assessment regulation and its impact on the psoriasis community. Trigos also announced EUROPSO’s new membership in the HTA Stakeholder Network, a significant milestone for the organization. His presentation focused on:

  • Encouraging patient and representative involvement in joint clinical assessments and scientific consultations.
  • Strengthening the role of patients and stakeholders to enhance HTA transparency and quality.
  • Implementing standardized EU-wide methods for HTA processes.

3. Advocacy Campaigns in 2024 and 2025
Tina Koukopoulou reviewed the success of the European Psoriasis Week (EPW) and World Psoriasis Day (WPD) campaigns in May and October 2024. The meeting included a brainstorming session for 2025 campaigns, focusing on equity in treatment access, information, and digital tools.

4. GPP Wellness Project Update
Jelena Misita provided insights into the IFPA-funded project aimed at improving wellness for individuals with Generalized Pustular Psoriasis (GPP). Progress was shared on its three pillars: healthy diet, stress management, and physical exercise.

5. Effective Use of Data for Advocacy
Luisa Avendano, CEO of EFCCA, emphasized the importance of leveraging data for impactful advocacy, while Roberto Saldaña, Strategy Advisor, highlighted how Real-World Evidence can bridge gaps in innovation, stating that, for now, “Innovation does not reach the market… but we don’t even know what we’re missing.”

The meeting ended with a group photo, marking another successful gathering of EUROPSO members. Presentations from the meeting will be distributed to participants by the EUROPSO Secretariat in the coming days.

The event underscored EUROPSO’s commitment to advancing patient advocacy, promoting wellness, and enhancing access to treatment for the psoriasis community across Europe.

Unveiling Psoriasis: A Double Perspective

/in

EUROPSO Podcast Episode 2

With a blend of personal narratives and professional insights, second episode of Europso Podcast offers a comprehensive exploration of psoriasis from a female perspective, shedding light on the challenges, triumphs, and collaborative efforts in managing this chronic condition.

In this episode supported by Almirall, Europso continues to explore deep into the world of psoriasis from two unique perspectives. Hosted by patient advocate Jelena Misita, guests Tina Koukopoulou, a psoriasis patient, and Dr Martina Burlando, a healthcare professional, share their insights into the challenges and triumphs faced by women with psoriasis.

Tina, a patient advocate from Greece, shares her journey with psoriasis since adolescence, while Dr Burlando, a specialist from Italy, sheds light on her expertise in managing chronic skin conditions.

Tina discusses the evolving impact of psoriasis on her life, from initial diagnosis to managing symptoms and societal stigma. She shares personal experiences of familial support, coping strategies, and the complexities of living with visible skin lesions, particularly as a woman in a society where image matters.

Dr Burlando emphasizes the holistic approach to psoriasis management, considering both physical and emotional well-being. She highlights the importance of patient-provider collaboration, tailored treatment plans, and addressing concerns around family planning and therapy side effects.

The discussion underscores the significance of open communication between patients and healthcare professionals in navigating treatment decisions, managing fears, and optimizing outcomes. Dr Burlando stresses the role of empathy, personalized care, and ongoing support in empowering patients on their psoriasis journey.

The episode concludes with a reminder that while living with psoriasis presents unique challenges, with support, understanding, and proper guidance, it’s a journey that can be managed. Good communication fosters strong patient-provider relationships, paving the way for better treatment outcomes and improved quality of life.

Listeners are encouraged to subscribe to the Europso YouTube channel for more enlightening discussions on managing skin conditions. With Almirall’s support, the podcast aims to provide innovative solutions and improve the lives of those affected by psoriasis.

For listening this episode, please follow this link.