Kathmandu, November 24, 2024 – The 23rd Asian Spinal Cord Network (ASCoN) Conference is currently underway in Kathmandu, bringing together over 200 participants from 18 plus countries across the globe to discuss advancements in spinal cord injury (SCI) care and rehabilitation. The conference, themed “Knowledge, Exchange, and Technologies for Decentralized SCI Care”, is being held from November 23 to 25, 2024, and marks the fourth occasion Nepal has had the honor of hosting this esteemed event. This reflects Nepal's ongoing commitment to advancing SCI care and rehabilitation.
The conference is co-hosted by the Epidemiology and Disease Control Division (EDCD), Department of Health Services (DoHS), Ministry of Health and Population (MOHP), and the Spinal Injury Sangh Nepal (SISN). It serves as a platform for diverse stakeholders, including PMR doctors, surgeons, nurses, therapists, researchers, policymakers, paramedics, SCI users, and representatives from international organizations.
Participants are engaging in multidisciplinary workshops, scientific sessions, exhibitions, and even wheelchair sports, with the aim of enhancing specialized SCI services, primary healthcare, and rehabilitation practices. The event also emphasizes the importance of equitable access to SCI care, particularly in underserved and remote areas.
Addressing the audience during the opening session, experts highlighted the critical role of innovation and collaboration in improving SCI management. The theme of the conference underscores the focus on decentralized care, bringing advanced technologies and solutions closer to affected communities.
Organizers hope the discussions and collaborations initiated during this conference will foster actionable strategies and partnerships to improve the quality of life for individuals with spinal cord injuries. This landmark event underscores Nepal’s growing role as a hub for international discussions on pressing healthcare challenges in a sustainable manner.
