Activities

The ERN ReCONNET Exchange Programme:

sharing knowledge across borders

The ERN ReCONNET Exchange Program offers healthcare professionals and patient advocates a unique opportunity to connect, learn, and collaborate across borders.

Supported by the European Commission, the program enables participants to visit healthcare providers in other European countries to exchange knowledge and best practices related to rare and complex connective tissue and musculoskeletal diseases (rCTDs).

Whether you’re a clinician, nurse, researcher, or patient advocate, this program is designed to strengthen professional relationships, support continuous learning, and ultimately improve care for patients with rCTDs.

Who Can Participate?

• Healthcare professionals from ERN ReCONNET-affiliated institutions
• European Patient Advocacy Group (ePAG) Advocates involved with ERN ReCONNET

What Can You Expect?

During your visit to a host institution in another country, you will have the chance to:

• Share and gain clinical and organizational insights on rCTDs
• Participate in education and training activities
• Exchange good practices and experiences
• Support patient empowerment and education initiatives

Financial Support

ERN ReCONNET offers a daily allowance and helps with travel costs in accordance with the guidelines of the European Commission. The goal is to make participation accessible and rewarding without financial barriers.

How It Works

Each year, various ERN ReCONNET centers across Europe volunteer to host participants in the exchange program. The list of destinations and program offerings changes annually, providing a wide range of experiences and focus areas. Exchange visits typically last between 3 and 5 days.

A call for applications is issued each spring, inviting eligible candidates to apply. Once selected, participants are notified of their acceptance and are responsible for organizing their own travel. Travel dates are flexible and should be arranged in coordination with the host center, to take place during the upcoming academic year.

The ERN ReCONNET Exchange program is led by Prof. Éric Hachulla, as part of the ERN ReCONNET  Training and Education Working Group.