Hearts on the Beat: First Patient Day at BIOTRONIK, Berlin

BERLIN, June 15 2015 – BIOTRONIK, a leading manufacturer of cardiovascular medical devices collaborated with renowned physicians to host the first large-scale patient day at its Berlin headquarters. The event was called “Hearts on the Beat,” and it took the active daily life of patients as its theme. Guests learned about the latest developments in heart medicine and were able to talk with medical experts in the field. A factory tour provided an opportunity to observe the production of cardiovascular devices first hand.

"This is already my second visit to BIOTRONIK and I really appreciate this kind of exchange," said Detlef Günther, Chairman of the Charité Support Group in Berlin. "I get a lot out of the lectures by physicians and BIOTRONIK employees, not just for me personally, but also for my support group."

In the future, the German medical technology company aims to host an annual patient day, creating a hands-on opportunity for patients and clients to meet face-to-face.

"For us physicians, the event provides information about patients’ needs," said Dr. Christopher Piorkowski, Dresden Heart Center. "We can learn a lot from the participants which is helpful in our daily practice, and stand to benefit from all of their input. I think it is very important that manufacturers create platforms that allow for communication and exchange with patients, and organize helpful and informative events like this one."

In Germany alone, about 150,000 new pacemakers and implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) were implanted in 2014. With such huge numbers, the patient no longer needs to feel alone when suddenly faced with unexpected challenges due to their illness. At the same time, each individual person has their own unique history and lifestyle, so the questions and concerns which can arise are just as diverse.

"Having direct contact with patients means a great deal to us, and we are delighted if all participants take home positive experiences and valuable information," said Dr. Olaf Dippel, site manager at BIOTRONIK.