Exchange Programme Interview: Dr. Daan Bosshardt

In this VASCERN Exchange Programme interview, we are delighted to feature Dr. Daan Bosshardt from Amsterdam UMC, Netherlands. As a specialist in cardiology and radiology with a research focus on Marfan syndrome, Dr. Bosshardt took part in the exchange at Vall d’Hebron University Hospital in Barcelona, Spain, a leading referral center for heritable thoracic aortic disease. Under the guidance of Dr. Gisela Teixidó-Turá, he explored patient care pathways, advanced aortic imaging techniques, and the integration of research into clinical workflows. In this interview, he shares his key takeaways from the exchange and the valuable insights gained during his experience.

1) What is your medical specialty?

I am a medical doctor working in the Department of Cardiology and Radiology, with a focus on research related to Marfan syndrome. My work involves evaluating the care of Marfan syndrome across Europe, and I specialize in advanced aortic imaging techniques.

2) What motivated you to participate in the VASCERN Exchange Program?

Barcelona is a leading referral centre for heritable thoracic aortic disease, with a strong research pipeline for MRI studies, making it an ideal setting to deepen my understanding of imaging research. The opportunity to exchange knowledge with a renowned institution and collaborate on research initiatives was highly motivating.

I was particularly impressed by their structured research approach, as it provided valuable insights into effectively integrating imaging research into daily clinical practice.

3) What were your goals and expectations for the exchange program?

My main objectives were to gain insight into the patient care pathway for Marfan syndrome in Barcelona, collecting data for research purposes and share experiences on different and novel aortic imaging strategies. Additionally, I aimed to strengthen research collaborations and explore new opportunities for international cooperation.

4) How did the host institution support your learning and integration during your stay?

The host institution provided excellent support through opportunities to visit outpatient clinics, engage in discussions with the imaging team, and participate in meetings focused on research and clinical integration. My host, Dr. Gisela Teixidó-Turá, and her team were extremely kind and welcoming, facilitating a productive and enriching experience throughout my stay.

Observing other clinical practices is an invaluable learning experience, allowing for the exchange of best practices and insights into different healthcare systems.

5) Were there any particular cases or interactions that stood out during your exchange?

I was particularly impressed by their structured research approach, as it provided valuable insights into effectively integrating imaging research into daily clinical practice.

6) What differences in healthcare approaches did you observe?

While there were many similarities in terms of outpatient clinic organisation, I observed differences in how research MRIs are incorporated into routine clinical workflows. The approach in Barcelona offered a valuable perspective on optimizing the implementation of research within daily patient care.

7) What are the key takeaways you plan to implement in your practice?

A key takeaway is the potential for greater integration of research within clinical workflows. Strengthening this connection can enhance patient care while advancing scientific knowledge. Additionally, the structured research strategies observed in Barcelona provide a model for improving data collection and research efficiency.

8) Would you recommend the exchange program, and why?

Yes, I highly recommend the program. Observing other clinical practices is an invaluable learning experience, allowing for the exchange of best practices and insights into different healthcare systems. The program also fosters collaboration, providing a broader context on how colleagues in other hospitals approach similar challenges. The welcoming and knowledgeable environment at my host institution made the experience even more valuable.