On October 14, 2026, the expert seminar “When Every Second Counts”, organized by the Emergency Response Centre, was held in Gdańsk. The event was attended by representatives of the Poznań Medical Academy: Krzysztof Kostewicz, Dean of the Faculty of Emergency Medical Services, and Tomasz Kubiak, PhD in Health Sciences, Professor at the Academy.
The seminar focused on issues related to the organization and development of local safety systems, with particular emphasis on universal access to automated external defibrillators (AEDs) and the effectiveness of actions taken in life-threatening emergencies.
The meeting was attended by representatives of the academic community, local government administration, emergency services, healthcare institutions, social organizations, and the business sector. The discussion focused on solutions for creating coherent and effective life-saving systems based on inter-institutional cooperation, modern technologies, and appropriately developed infrastructure.
The seminar program included expert presentations, panel discussions, and an analysis of practical experiences related to the implementation of public access defibrillation programs. Particular attention was given to the financing and maintenance of AED networks, public education, and the responsibility of public institutions for the development of local safety systems.
The participation of representatives of the Poznań Medical Academy in the event provided an opportunity to exchange experiences and deepen the discussion on the current challenges facing modern emergency medical services. The issues addressed are closely related to the Academy’s teaching and research activities, particularly the preparation of future healthcare professionals to respond effectively in situations involving threats to health and life.
The presence of representatives of the Faculty of Emergency Medical Services among the seminar participants highlights the importance of dialogue between the academic community and institutions responsible for organizing the emergency response and public safety system.
The “When Every Second Counts” seminar provided an important platform for the exchange of knowledge, experience, and best practices, while also highlighting that the effectiveness of life-saving measures depends both on access to appropriate tools and on proper public preparedness, as well as cooperation between emergency services and institutions.