Community forums give people the opportunity to have input into the policies that guide medical research and services in our public health system.

In August and November 2008 we held two forums about biobanking in Western Australia.

Learn more about biobanks » What are biobanks? » What are they used for? » How are biobanks created?	Biobanking forums » Why have a forum? » How were the forums run? » What was involved?	Community feedback » Past forums » Feedback from participants

The first forum was held in August 2008 with members of Genetic Support groups.

“I would like thank everyone for the opportunity to participate and being involved in this. I was fascinated by the variety of viewpoints that people had and where they came from. I just found it was things you don’t often think about and you talk to people and it's surprising where they are coming from and why they formed these attitudes. I was also impressed by how much some people were willing to let go of their personal views, to aim for the common good, that reaffirmed my faith in people somewhat. So I found that fascinating.”

[Participant feedback, August 2008 forum]

The second forum was held in November 2008 with members from the Western Australian public.

“We think that this was an excellent oppurtunity for all of us to participate in this, and I really valued it. I don’t think this kind of thing happens too often and for me personally it increased my respect for the people that organise this kind of thing and the Health Department to allow this oppurtunity to go out to the community.”

[Participant feedback, November 2008 forum]

Currently there are no future community forums planned. If you are interested in participating please check back later in the year or contact us.