On 1 April 2026 some 80 GPs and healthcare professionals gathered in Utrecht for the annual WHIG Spring Symposium. An evening full of exchange, recognisable practical examples and topical themes focused on international and multicultural GP care. The symposium was organised by the Werkgroep Huisartsen Internationale Gezondheidszorg (WHIG) of the Netherlands Society for Global Health (NSGH), in cooperation with Global Health Knowledge Centre (KCGH).
The programme brought together current themes within international and multicultural GP care. Dermatologist Eva Huis in ’t Veld discussed inclusive dermatology and the importance of knowing about skin abnormalities in different skin types. Gertrude Lwanga shared her experiences with community-based HIV care in Kenya and showed how collaboration with local communities is essential for effective care.
Internist-infectiologists Michele van Vugt and Katja de Jong discussed common questions from general practice about tropical infectious diseases and traveller medicine. Finally, the role of the general practitioner in relation to climate and health also took centre stage: Arne Beguin showed how planetary health is becoming increasingly relevant within primary care and gave practical tools for a more sustainable practice.
The evening was led by Bahar Golchehr and, in addition to substantive depth, offered plenty of room for interaction, questions and encounters. The combination of practical sessions and exchange with colleagues made the symposium an inspiring gathering.
The WHIG Spring Symposium takes place annually in the first week of April. Interested in contributing? The WHIG is always looking for enthusiastic GPs who would like to contribute ideas or help with activities, such as organising future symposia. Get in touch via info@whig.nl.
Want to be informed about future editions and other global health activities? Check our agenda.
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