March 28, 2020
Posted by:
IEPA
It is with a heavy heart that in response to the novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, we are having to cancel this year’s IEPA 12 – Early Intervention in Mental Health Conference in Rio, Brazil (20-23 September 2020).
We are aware of the massive impact that COVID-19 is having on the health sector around the world. Many of our members are supporting the well-being of the most vulnerable people in our society at this time, as well as supporting frontline colleagues. The knowledge, commitment, and compassion that we all bring to our local services and communities will become ever more important once the acute phase of COVID-19 is over.
IEPA has been a non-profit organisation since its formation nearly 25 years ago and, without a membership fee, it relies on the conferences for income. Cancelling IEPA-12 is a real threat to its continuation but our paramount concern is the health and safety of our delegates, exhibitors and staff. We are considering a range of options to secure the future and will be in touch with members as the options become clear.
We remain committed to our mission to the study and treatment of the early phases of mental health disorders and we are working to create a series of online webinars to present the most up to date science and clinical impacts. This approach will keep alive our scientific mission and the spirit of the IEPA until we can convene again.
Please check our website regularly and read our newsletter for additional details that will be announced soon. Regarding reimbursement, the IEPA Office will directly contact those who have paid their registration to arrange a refund.
We hope everyone keeps safe during this time and look forward to meeting again in the future.
Yours sincerely
Lucia Valmaggia, IEPA President
Rodrigo A Bressan, Conference Convenor
