The Swiss Federation of Clinical Neuro-Societies (SFCNS) held a kick-off meeting for the Swiss Brain Health Plan at the Kunsthaus Zurich on Wednesday 22 November. EAN Past-President Claudio Bassetti and President Paul Boon both spoke at the launch event, with President-Elect Elena Moro, and Executive Director Anja Sander also in attendance.
The Swiss Brain Health Plan aligns with the objectives of the WHO’s Global Action Plan (iGAP) on epilepsy and other neurological disorders and is further strengthened by the foundational principles of the EAN Brain Health Strategy. In harmonising with these overarching frameworks, this plan exemplifies the kind of national-level initiative that the EAN ardently encourages and supports among our member countries.
The joint goal is to create awareness about brain health as a whole and to initiate prevention programmes. The strategic task force of the Swiss Brain Health Plan consists of 50 members — all of whom are authors of the publication The Swiss Brain Health Plan 2023-2033.
The EAN congratulates the SFCNS on the launch of a brain health plan in Switzerland. This represents a significant step in the broader mission among the neurological community to highlight the importance of brain health. We are thrilled to have influenced the development of this plan through the contribution of the EAN Brain Health Strategy.
The Swiss Brain Health Plan will be developed further by SFCNS as it involves many specialties within the neurological field. The goal of the Kick-Off Meeting was to share information and create awareness among all stakeholders, including politicians, hospitals, patient organisations, researchers, insurances, companies and finally the public.
Why is Brain Health so important?
Good brain health is vital to reducing the large and growing healthcare burden associated with brain disorders. As one of the most central and important organs of the human body, taking care of our brains should be as routine as the act of brushing our teeth.
This strategy recognises that Brain Health goes beyond the absence of disease or treatment of disorders or rehabilitation and encompasses preventive measures to decrease the incidence of brain disorders, enabling individuals to function and cope with life situations (EAN).
Together united by a shared vision and commitment, we move steadily towards a future where brain health is a priority, and people can realise their full potential throughout the life course.
EAN Past-President Claudio Bassetti 
EAN President Paul Boon 
(from left) Boon, Bassetti, EAN President-Elect Elena Moro, EAN Executive Director Anja Sander
