The British and Irish Hearing Instruments Manufacturers Association (BIHIMA) was represented in Paris recently for the fifth annual European Hearing Industry Forum, a gathering of representative organisations under the umbrella of the European Hearing Instrument Manufacturers Association.
The meeting was hosted by SNITEM (the national union of the medical technology industry in France) and involved members sharing activity updates from those countries represented, including key challenges, market data, successes in engaging professionals and consumers, and opportunities for collaboration.
Key topics included World Hearing Day and how to maximise the awareness of hearing well and the debilitating consequences of deafness. The growing shortage of hearing care professionals across the nations was proving a challenge and it was agreed long-term sustainable solutions were required to ensure hearing care remains accessible for all.
EHIMA Secretary General Stefan Zimmer said: “Each forum brings together passionate leaders of the hearing industry in various countries; all committed to advancing hearing care and innovation. I’m proud of the collaborative spirit and forward-looking discussions we shared again this year.”
BIHIMA Chairman Paul Surridge said, “As a founder member of the forum we enjoy strong relationships with our colleagues across Europe, as well as the USA who were also represented at the meeting. This annual event gives each country the opportunity to compare notes on key issues, sharing insights, ideas and expertise that we can all weave into our individual country activity.”
