Slovak Pediatric Conference Marks 80 Years of Children's Department in Martin
The 53rd annual Galand's Days, a nationwide pediatric conference, took place on November 23 and 24 at the Aula Magna of Jessenius Faculty of Medicine at Comenius University in Martin.
"This year's conference covered various pediatric specialties like immunology, gastroenterology, neurology, nephrology, and pulmonology, among others. We also delved into vital topics like vaccination and pediatric screening," informed Prof. Peter Bánovčin, CSc., President of the event and Head of the Children and Adolescents Clinic at University Hospital Martin.
A significant highlight of the congress was commemorating the 80th anniversary of the establishment of the children's department in Martin. "The department was founded during a tumultuous period for Slovakia, marked by war and uprising. Initially set up in the premises of the 5th pavilion, which now houses the Clinic of Infectology, the department's first head unfortunately fell victim to a bomb explosion. Post-war, under the leadership of Professor Vladimír Galanda, a prominent figure in Slovak pediatrics, the department saw significant growth," Prof. Bánovčin elaborated.
The 53rd Galand's Days also featured several commemorative memorial lectures. A special focus was given to pediatric nursing, addressing the acute shortage of nurses in Slovak healthcare. "We aim to motivate nurses to engage and develop in their profession," added Prof. Bánovčin.
The event's opening ceremony included the presentation of awards by the Slovak Pediatric Society. Among the recipients was Assoc. Prof. Dalibor Murgaš, PhD, MHA from University Hospital Martin, the Ministry of Health's chief expert in pediatric surgery in Slovakia.