Empowering consumers as equal partners at scientific conferences in nephrology

Patients, caregivers and family members are being increasingly involved in research, including as equal delegates in scientific meetings and conferences.1 As the people that research aims to help and who are often involved as participants, we bring perspectives to these events that can enhance how research is performed, communicated and translated into care. Patients possess unique knowledge gained from their lived experiences of kidney disease and its treatments, as well as other life experiences and skills. Carers and family members offer yet another perspective, one of an observer and trusted advisor to the patient's journey, with their own research priorities and informational needs.