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Hybrid conferences in the post-COVID-19 era: Time yet for a paradigm shift for medical associations
Dinesh Kumar Devaraj1, Shyamanta Barua2, Neeta karal Nair1, Raghunatha R Reddy3, Namitha Chathra4, Aruna Devi5, Dipak Kumar Agarwal6, Savitha Somaiah3, Jagadish P7
1 Dr Dinesh’s Skin & Hair Clinic, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
2 Department of Dermatology, Assam Medical College & Hospital, Dibrugarh, Assam, India
3 Roots Skin Institute of Dermatological Sciences, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
4 Department of Dermatology, P.E.S. Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Kuppam, Andhra Pradesh, India
5 Essence Skin Clinic, Guwahati, Assam, India
6 Department of Dermatology & Venereology, Gauhati Medical College & Hospital, Guwahati, Assam, India
7 Cuticare Centre, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Correspondence Address:
Dr. Namitha Chathra
Department of Dermatology, P.E.S. Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Kuppam, Andhra Pradesh
India
 Source of Support: None, Conflict of Interest: None  | Check |
DOI: 10.4103/JCAS.JCAS_207_21
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Materials and Methods: The physical attendees were surveyed post-ACSICON 2021 conference online, using a mixed-methods technique. Attendees were given a 16-point questionnaire using Google Forms that covered subjects including the COVID-19 preventive procedure, immunization status, infection rates during and after the conference, and overall satisfaction with the hybrid conference. A total of 231 people were sent the survey questionnaire. Results: Only 0.4% (n = 1) of the participants reported being infected by COVID-19 virus after the conference. 86% (n = 198) of the respondents also felt that all the necessary precautions were taken during the ACSICON 2021conference. Most of the respondents (82%, n = 189) rated the hybrid conference interaction to be more satisfying than an online conference. An overwhelming majority of the respondents (92%, n = 209) found hybrid conferences to be a safer option than regular conference. Conclusion: The COVID-19 pandemic’s scope has forced a paradigm change in medical practice and research (1). ACSICON 2021 is an example of how, with careful organization, strict implementation of meticulous preventive procedures, and strict adherence to the COVID-19 protocol, medical conferences may be held without danger of infection and its transmission. Given the pace with which vaccinations are being administered, a new reality in which technology and live networking intersect via hybrid conferences will result in a more engaging and adaptable medical conference experience. In the long run, this can bring about a significant shift in the conduct of scientific meetings to best suit delegates’ needs and conveniences. |
