The Health Congress, taking place for the first time this September, is an essential building block for Special Olympics Health. This global health promotion program by Special Olympics International has been established in Switzerland for over a year now. The program is crucial, because even in this country, people with intellectual disabilities have an increased risk of preventable health problems and a higher mortality rate. At the same time, the healthcare system in Switzerland is not yet sufficiently prepared for their specific needs.
The first Health Congress, which will now be held this autumn in Zug, brings together specialists, institutions, authorities, as well as people with intellectual disabilities and their relatives. It focuses on equal health opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities and how systems, organizations, and professionals can jointly achieve effective improvements.
Key Data
Date: September 24/25, 2026
Location: Johnson & Johnson, Gubelstrasse 34, 6300 Zug
Format:
- The first day is designed as a symposium for participants from all over Switzerland.
- The second day focuses on “Opening Eyes,” one of the seven Healthy Athletes offerings, which are also part of the Health program. These are free preventive health screenings for athletes during Special Olympics National or World Games.
What to Expect
- Panel Talk on the current situation and levers for change
- Four Workshops – from the perspectives of affected individuals to imparting practical knowledge and developing concrete steps for implementation
- Expert Keynote – Thoughts on rare diseases in connection with intellectual developmental disorders
- World Café – four thematic tables and rotations
- Healthy Athletes “Opening Eyes” – demonstration of screenings and exchange formats for Clinical Directors
What We Aim to Achieve with This Congress
- Raising awareness for health challenges faced by people with intellectual disabilities
- Knowledge transfer, exchange of experiences, and best practices
- Networking around Healthy Athletes – for professionals, Clinical Directors, and cross-organizational collaboration
Who We Are Addressing with Our First Congress
- Swiss health authorities
- Doctors and medical professionals
- Clinical Directors from the Healthy Athletes Health program
- Heads of institutions and staff
- People with intellectual disabilities and family members