The 3rd National Heart Forum, held under the esteemed patronage of His Excellency Minister of Health Mr. Fahad Al-Jalajel, brought together over 250+ attendees, including 11 distinguished international guests and representatives from five leading societies. This premier event in the cardiology field took place from November 7–8, 2024, at the Movenpick Hotel, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, setting the stage for collaborative advancement in cardiovascular health.

Dr. Adel Tash, President of the Forum and Director General of the National Heart Center, shared his heartfelt welcome message, emphasizing the event’s mission to foster knowledge exchange and collaborative innovation. He celebrated the forum’s role in uniting cardiologists, researchers, and healthcare professionals to address pressing cardiovascular challenges, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 Health Sector Transformation Program.

Dr. Mirvat Alasnag, Chair of the Scientific Committee, further highlighted the forum’s focus on leveraging technological advancements and multidisciplinary collaborations. She underscored the integration of the heart team model and e-health tools as central themes in driving enhanced care and accessibility.

Program Highlights

The National Heart Forum offered a robust scientific program that included:

• Keynote sessions on advancements in cardiac care, including updates from global centers of excellence.
• Interactive live transmissions showcasing cutting-edge procedures such as TAVR (Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement) and advanced imaging techniques.
• Workshops on 3D echocardiography and aortic stenosis evaluation, allowing hands-on experience with the latest technologies.
• Prism discussions addressing critical topics such as heart function, prevention strategies, and innovative solutions for structural heart diseases.

A Platform for Global Collaboration

This year’s forum also served as a platform for global collaboration, with representation from prestigious societies like the American Heart Association, the European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery, and the Cardiovascular Research Foundation.

Impact and Accreditation

The forum’s significance extends beyond its sessions, offering participants the opportunity to earn 23 CME credits, signifying its commitment to professional development in the field of cardiology.

The Road Ahead

As the curtains close on the 3rd National Heart Forum, the discussions and collaborations sparked here will undoubtedly shape the future of cardiovascular healthcare in Saudi Arabia and beyond. This event remains a testament to the National Heart Center’s dedication to advancing cardiac care and setting new standards for excellence.