¡Viva Madrid! The IAG Forum and 25th Medical Academy Review

Representatives came from across 26 countries to connect with the IAG community. Through a range of keynote speeches, partner presentations and engaging discussions, IAG partners and providers explored trends and technologies in global assistance. Participants shared their experiences and expertise from near and far, strengthening connections across the IAG’s growing network.

Alongside the Forum, the 25th Medical Academy, ‘Reach New Heights in Medical Assistance’, aimed to advance the knowledge and careers of operational staff and young professionals. The Academy empowered attendees through focused presentations, interactive workshops, case studies and peer-led discussions. This event provided a training platform for operational staff to enhance their skills and knowledge, and expand their network. 

These events marked a strong start to the year for the alliance, reinforcing the value of in-person connection and ongoing professional development across IAG’s extensive global network of independent assistance companies and service providers.

Future-focused insights  

Both events offered unique opportunities to learn, share ideas and gain practical, real-world skills. Keynote speakers and workshop leaders offered forward-thinking perspectives for IAG partners and providers:

• Ana Pastor Julián, Spanish politician and medical expert, shared a valuable introduction to healthcare in Spain including key insights into quality, costs and challenges for international travellers requiring treatment in Spain
• João Lauro de Marco, CTO of TAC
• Services, delivered a workshop exploring the power of AI and innovation in the assistance sector, highlighting practical applications for streamlining operations and improving efficiency
• Emmanuel Djengue, CEO of KAATCH, spoke on cross-cultural team dynamics and international collaboration, providing actionable strategies for fostering effective communication and collaboration across diverse global teams
• Dr Annelieke Hulzebosch, CMO of SOS International, and Dr Sharon Kay, CMO at MSO International and IAG's Medical Committee Coordinator, facilitated discussions highlighting the collaborative roles within the patient journey, emphasising the importance of interprofessional understanding for optimal patient care.

Thank you to event sponsors MCI Assist, New Frontier Group and Avinode for their support,  and to local Core Partner and co-host Iris Global Soluciones.

Strengthening connections 

Networking was a key element of both events as delegates fostered connections during dedicated social events. These included a cocktail reception hosted by MCI Assist and a flamenco-themed dinner hosted by Iris Global. Many participants also explored the city through informal walking and running groups.

Upcoming events

Planning is underway for IAG’s next Global Forum taking place in France this October. Two EduTours are also scheduled for later in the year – one in Morocco from 12–16 May, and another in the Dominican Republic from 1–5 December, just prior to the IAG US and Caribbean Healthcare Summit in Miami.

The world’s largest alliance of international assistance companies

The International Assistance Group was founded in Europe in 1992 by five assistance companies working together to support their global customers. Since then, the IAG partnership has grown into an alliance of more than 160 partners, providers and correspondents helping over 150 million travellers each year.