Gavin Schranz, an M.Sc. Digital Health student at the University of Malta, was invited to present at STYPA (Skills Training for Young Patient Advocates) 2024 in Brussels. Organised by the European Patients Forum, this event brought together 30 patients from across Europe, sharing innovative solutions for pressing health issues, such as Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR).  

AMR is a growing global health threat where bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites evolve to resist the effects of medications, making common infections harder to treat and increasing the risk of disease spread, severe illness, and death. Addressing AMR requires urgent, coordinated action, and effective public education is crucial in promoting the responsible use of antibiotics.

The STYPA audience was composed of patients from various clinical backgrounds united by their experience with AMR as a patient or caregiver. Patient stories shared during the event highlighted the real-world impact of AMR, making it clear that public education is a vital component of the fight against this global health threat.

Schranz's presentation focused on the critical role of patient involvement in the development of digital health tools, ensuring that they are effective, user-friendly, and truly meet patients' needs. During the event, Schranz demonstrated an innovative e-learning tool that uses interactive features to educate the public on prudent antibiotic use.

Gavin Schranz's research was supervised by Dr Ermira Tartari Bonnici from the Faculty of Health Sciences and Dr Vanessa Camilleri from the Faculty of ICT. European Patients Forum is the leading voice of patient organisations in Europe, serving as an umbrella for patient organisations across Europe and various disease areas. Schranz also participated in an online webinar hosted by European Patients Forum and The AMR Narrative, sharing his experience as a patient advocate with a wider audience.

The webinar is accessible online.