J.Jpn. Surg. Soc.. 123(2): 169-171, 2022

---

Feature topic

FACE-TO-FACE INTERACTIONS DURING ANNUAL CONGRESSES ARE OF PARAMOUNT IMPORTANCE FOR HUMANITY EDUCATION AND THE SUSTAINABILITY OF SURGERY AS WELL AS OF ACADEMIC SOCIETIES

During the COVID-19 pandemic, online or hybrid meetings of scientific societies, which combine both online and face-to-face modes, have become the standard. Their advantages, including time- and cost-effectiveness, have been widely recognized. However, the purpose of scientific meetings is not only to share knowledge and experience but also to nurture human relationships. In the specific case of the Japan Surgical Society (JSS), such meetings also create cooperative bonds among surgeons. Without either, neither surgery nor the JSS will be sustainable, as is also the case for elementary school education. Since the hybrid style is so convenient and effective, as long as this option is available many if not most will continue to select online participation even after the pandemic has resolved. As the president of the 123rd Annual Congress of the JSS (2023) and keeping the long-term well-being of both surgeons and society in mind, I will aim to conduct the meeting with restricted online option for most and limiting this option to those who are senior or who face other valid difficulties in physical attendance.

---

---

To read the PDF file you will need Adobe Reader installed on your computer.