Welcome to the 2011 ILADS Conference

Welcome to the ILADS 2011 Annual Scientific Conference. For the first time it will be held in Canada. We recognize the epidemic of Lyme and associated diseases extends into Canada and the Mid West and more awareness is needed beyond the East and West Coasts. A Canadian site for the meeting is also part of ILADS commitment to have a more global impact. Our most recent European Meeting was attended by participants from 24 different countries. Attendees have also come to our meetings from Australia, Asia, South America, the Middle East and Africa.

Dr. Daniel Cameron, ILADS Immediate Past President, has done an excellent job of coordinated this year’s meeting and the theme is the application of evidence based medicine to Lyme and associated diseases. Evidence based medicine is a combination of three components—the best evidence available, clinical judgment and patient values. The different tracks of this meeting will focus upon these three areas. Evidence from the latest scientific findings will be presented in the plenary session as well as other presentations focused upon specialized areas and assistance with research strategies and techniques will be provided. Clinical judgment will be emphasized in the Basics and Beyond program, with the Basic program to provide basic information for diagnosis and treatment, while the Beyond program is for the experienced clinician. This year we will add a Meet the Professor section to allow for interaction with experienced clinicians. Patient values will also be emphasized in presentations from a patient’s perspective as well as advocacy discussions. There is something in this meeting for the clinician who wants to learn basic as well as the latest research. Please refer to the Conference program for a complete schedule.

Toronto is an exciting city with much to do in free time for yourself and your family. In addition to the content of the meeting and the interesting exhibits, this will be a wonderful opportunity for colleagues to meet and socialize in a relaxed setting. On behalf of ILADS, the Board of Directors, and myself, we welcome your participation and feedback and hope this meeting will advance the proper implementation of evidence based medicine, advance the standard of care and assist us towards more effectively helping our patients.

Robert C Bransfield, MD, DLFAPA
ILADS President