About FESSH

DEAR COLLEAGUES,

Since the FESSH congress in May 2023, I have assumed the role of Secretary General. I am thankful for the opportunity to contribute to the growth and success of this organization. I feel not only honored but also humbled to have this position trusted to me to serve FESSH together with the Council and Asszisztencia in the coming years. It will be a challenge to follow in the footsteps of my predecessors, but I am determined to take up this responsibility and to build upon the foundation they have laid.

Over the last  years, emphasis has been rightly placed on transparency, education, research, and social networking. These pillars have guided our actions and have paved the way for the remarkable progress we have achieved.

Our mission, as reflected in our recently updated bylaws, is the advancement of hand surgery in all aspects, encompassing science, education, and clinical practice. Looking ahead, I firmly believe that our vision for FESSH should be to become the authority in the field of hand surgery in Europe within the next five years. This vision includes all relevant parties: hand surgeons, allied health professionals, patient representatives, industry partners, representatives from the public, and government bodies.

In order to realize this vision, we should be prepared to go beyond our boundaries in the broadest sense. Our strategy focuses on further advancing education, research, and quality control of clinical practice in whole Europe.

It is now time to extend our support and to promote performing both research and clinical outcome measurements in a similar manner. Additionally, we should promote value-based healthcare by providing education, establishing a dedicated website page, and encouraging research on outcome measurements in comparable fashion. Encouraging and supporting the publication of results is essential with the aim of disseminating knowledge, improving clinical care, and gaining further recognition of the field of hand surgery.

Expanding our networking capabilities is equally important. FESSH is already serving as a platform for our national hand societies but aims to increase its presence to be a platform for more stakeholders: young hand surgeons (YEHS), other federations, subspecialties,  industry and more.

It is evident that many of these actions are being performed by our dedicated committees. The existing collaboration among these committees is invaluable and should be cherished, with  expansion where needed. Our committees play a vital role in driving our progress, and I encourage all members to actively engage and contribute to these committees. Your values, collaboration, input, and support are essential,  and your involvement and collective commitment will be instrumental in our future success.

I extend my deepest gratitude to each and every one of you for your dedication to FESSH. Together, we will explore and strive to fulfill the needs of all players in the field of hand surgery, to ensure a bright and prosperous future for our federation.

Thank you for your unwavering support.

Warm regards,

 

Brigitte van der Heijden
Secretary General (2023-2026)