The ESPA Medical Commission, spearheaded by Prof. Patrick Carpentier from the Université Grenoble – Alpes in France, stands firm in its mission to establish scientifically recognized therapeutic and preventive balneotherapy throughout Europe. Their comprehensive approach is aimed at elevating the status of balneotherapy within the medical community while fostering health improvements and enhancing the quality of life across the continent.
The Commission’s refined objectives revolve around the development of scientifically validated balneotherapy practices based on high-quality research studies. Their strategy involves disseminating research findings, creating educational syntheses, and enhancing the image of balneotherapy among medical professionals. Their focus encompasses both therapeutic and preventive aspects, targeting the enhancement and preservation of health status and quality of life.
Approach and Structure
In the future, the Commission will operate as a cohesive Working Group, encompassing a representative from each country to ensure the incorporation of diverse needs and competencies. This collective body will actively circulate information within national communities, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange. Regular meetings—both in-person and remote—will facilitate the seamless functioning of the Commission. A dedicated core team of committed individuals, ranging from 4 to 6 members, will ensure regular work and monthly evaluation of objectives through scheduled Zoom meetings.
Initial Actions
The Commission’s future plans will prioritize understanding the current landscape. This will involve conducting a comprehensive survey on balneotherapy across European countries to identify strengths, weaknesses, and complementary aspects of national medical balneology. Early decisions will be aimed at focusing on prioritizing key areas for improvement. Collaboration with international organizations like ISMH and UEMS will aim to identify collaborative opportunities, while the development of a dedicated “medical commission page” on the ESPA website will seek to centralize information.
The Commission’s ambition is not just confined to the immediate term. By employing a country-by-country approach and fostering bilateral and multilateral cooperation, they envision a future where scientifically validated balneotherapy becomes a cornerstone of healthcare practices across Europe.
The ESPA Medical Commission, with its meticulous planning, collaborative approach, and dedication to scientific validation, is poised to transform the landscape of balneotherapy, ensuring its recognition and integration into the broader medical community across Europe for the betterment of public health and well-being.
The Commission seeks to expand the ESPA E-Library, so we invite everyone with relevant scientific and research papers to submit them to us.