At a scientific salon, the panel briefly shares their perspectives on the current theme, followed by a conversation between the panelists and the guests. In a time that demands quick responses, the scientific salon provides a space for reflection from various perspectives.
This year's theme and speakers
This year's focus centered on women's health, a topic that has been intensively debated in politics, media, and academia in recent years. Issues related to a lack of knowledge about specific diseases and injuries in women, who gets a voice and can make their opinions heard, and how new technology can lead to improved healthcare were prominent in the evening's discussions.
A diverse panel of speakers from authorities, research funders, and researchers shared their perspectives and insights. The panel included:
- Tobias Ekenlie, Head of division, Women and Child's Health, Region Östergötland
- Nadja Fagrell Trygg, Senior research officer, Forte
- Lisa Guntram, Associate professor, Technology and Social Change, and Centre for Medical Humanities and Bioethics, LiU
- Anna Spångeus, Senior associate professor and Chief physician, Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, LiU, and MEGA Clinic, Region Östergötland
- Susanne Åhlund, Chief Midwifery Officer, Investigator, National Board of Health and Welfare
- Moderator: Kristin Zeiler, Professor, Technology and Social Change, and Centre for Medical Humanities and Bioethics, LiU
The panelists had only eight minutes each to present their perspectives, but they succeeded in conveying the essence of their messages. Ann Josefsson found insights during the evening. Photo credit Jenny Widén Ann Josefsson, Professor and Chief Physician at the Women's Clinic, University Hospital in Linköping, found insights in one of the ongoing research projects presented:
– I was impressed by Anna Spångeus's research project, which addresses how few women receive adequate treatment for osteoporosis. Therefore, her project is incredibly important and exciting. How can these needs be highlighted?
Panel discussion on challenges and opportunities
The panel discussion included reflections on who gets to voice their opinions in healthcare and how healthcare can be improved to include different groups, even in research. Lisa Guntram, researcher and coordinator at CMHB, emphasised the need for broader perspectives:
We need interdisciplinary approaches to reflect on what is allowed and not allowed to be heard in research.Collaboration and dialogue between the research community, clinics, regions, and authorities were highlighted as crucial to addressing challenges and creating opportunities in women's health.
– It was very interesting to see how research is conducted on women's health, from young women with childbirth and childbirth injuries to older women. The evening provided a comprehensive perspective from young to old women.
In conclusion, the evening reflected an open discussion about women's health, today and tomorrow. Participants gained insights from various perspectives, and the conversation focused on challenges and opportunities that require continued attention and, above all, collaboration for the health of all women.
