Two people who have pulmonary hypertension will share their perspectives on PH care management at the Pulmonary Hypertension Professional Network Symposium. The symposium takes place Sept. 18-20 at the Hyatt Regency Seattle.
“Patient Perspective in Pulmonary Hypertension,” will feature Eric Borstein of Los Angeles and Kate Salonga of Vancouver, British Columbia. The Pulmonary Hypertension Association and PHA Canada are co-hosting the session.
Borstein and Salonga will discuss how shared decision-making affects patients’ quality of life. They will address how effective communication between health care professionals and patients fosters trust and understanding.
“It’s important to remind ourselves that the point of medicine is to help people … see the ailments, illnesses and struggles of those in need,” Salonga says.
The session also will cover how:
- Patients can use their voices to advocate for others.
- Pulmonary hypertension affects mental health and wellness.
- Exercise can improve outcomes and inspire hope.
- How health care providers can engage their patients in their care journeys to ensure a holistic and patient-centered approach to PH management.
About the speakers
Borstein was diagnosed with pulmonary arterial hypertension in 2020 after a severe cardiac event. He is director of the Borstein Family Foundation and owns EB Urban Ventures, a real estate development company. He lives in Los Angeles with his wife, two daughters and son. Borstein has walked more than 10,700 miles to raise awareness for health and advocacy initiatives.
Salonga, of Vancouver, British Columbia, was diagnosed with idiopathic PAH in 2018. A former singer, Salonga now uses her voice to advocate for disabilities. In advocacy work, Salonga shares how PH affects mental health, especially for people who live alone. She hopes to inspire support for others in similar situations.
Attend the symposium to learn the latest in PH research and treatment, connect with colleagues and earn up to 10 hours of continuing education credit.
