International networking
ERN GUARD-Heart
One special feature is participation in the European Reference Network (ERN) GUARD for rare heart diseases. These reference networks are virtual networks of care providers throughout Europe. They focus on treatment of complex or rare heart conditions that require very specialised treatment and concentrated knowledge and resources. No individual country has the knowledge or capacity to treat all rare and complex diseases. The ERN GUARD network offers the potential to provide patients and doctors throughout Europe with access to the best expertise and timely sharing of life-saving knowledge, without having to travel to a different country.
European Association of Cardiovascular Imaging (EACVI)
The head of the Cardiology Department, Prof Bernard Cosyns, has been elected as President of the European Association of Cardiovascular Imaging (EACVI). EACVI is a division of the European Society of Cardiology. EACVI brings together more than 8,000 CVI professionals, including:
- Cardiologists
- Ultrasonographers
- Nurses
- Fundamental scientists
- Other related professionals
EACVI brings together health care professionals from four imaging modalities:
- Echocardiography
- Cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging (MRI or MR scanning)
- Nuclear cardiology (PET scanning)
- Cardiac computerised tomography (CT scanning)
The association strives to maintain the highest scientific and professional standards:
- Providing innovative, high-quality aids for continuing medical training
- Contributing towards improving standardisation of CVI practices in Europe
- Development of studies, research and clinical practice in CVI
- Supporting knowledge exchange
- Disseminating and encouraging the use of EACVI recommendations throughout the world