Taipei event overcomes volcano delays

Event 2nd Asia-Oceanian Conference of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine
Venue Taipei International Convention Centre
Organiser K&A International
Client AOCPRM
Delegates 1,600
Date April 29 – May 2


The brief
The Asian and Oceania Society of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine (AOCPRM) invited physical and rehabilitation experts from 40 countries for the society’s biennial conference held this year in Taipei.

This year’s theme was ‘Rehabilitation: From Cell to Society’ and was run in tandem with a new event, the Cross Strait Conference of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine.

Challenges
Many of the original speakers couldn’t make it at the last minute due to transport delays caused by the Icelandic volcano. Organisers K&A International were able to arrange alternative medical experts to take their place at short notice.

The abstract papers for the conference were printed in the UK, which meant they were also affected by the volcano. They did not arrive in time for the conference opening. With just three days to go before the event started, organisers arranged for all materials to be uploaded to the conference website.

Printed copies had arrived by the end of the conference and papers were posted to delegates on request after the event.

Execution
The opening ceremony was followed by a buffet with Chinese-style booth entertainment while 120 VIPs enjoyed a banquet meal at the Grand Hotel, with performances by music therapists who played the violin and piano. A gala dinner was held on the final night at the Grand Hyatt Taipei, with Hau Lunbin, the mayor of Taipei City, in attendance.

Special recognition awards were handed out and entertainment was provided by Aboriginal dancers.

Comment
The delegates were impressed by the event. US psychiatrist and International Society of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine president, Dr Joel Delisa, says Taiwan can play a leading role in the international physical and rehabilitation field.

“The organisers of this conference were very professional and I am very impressed with the quality and clarity of the information presented.”