Healthcare is a priority for the majority of European citizens and with common issues such as an ageing society and rapid technological changes, Europe-wide cooperation has become necessary and inevitable. The Commission's proposals are therefore aimed at increasing EU cooperation for the benefit of both the patient and the healthcare profession. The proposed initiatives include: improving the provision of information to patients on how to obtain treatment in another EU country; encouraging the use of new technology to improve the quality, availability and efficiency of healthcare; and developing centres of excellence.
In its communication, the Commission also suggests increased cooperation at national level, and puts forward a framework for governments for the reform and modernisation of healthcare and social protection.
'Health systems play a vital role in combating the risk of disease and poverty and ensuring social cohesion and employment. Bold reforms of funding and provision are vital to cope with demographic pressures, technological change and rising costs and to ensure continued quality, access and financial sustainability. Our aim is to support Member States in ensuring quality care provision for all Europe's citizens,' stated Stavros Dimas, the European Commissioner for Employment and Social Affairs.
Erkki Liikanen, Commissioner for Enterprise and the Information Society, agreed, adding: 'e-Health will open the door to more easily accessible and better quality health care. It is not about technology, but about patients. It can reduce errors, speed up treatment and offer important cost savings. [...] We have to invest in new solutions, boost skills and re-organise health services so that patients and health professionals get the most from new technology and services. Everyone from the patient to pharmacists and physicians can benefit if we move ahead with our forthcoming e-Health roadmap.'
The three measures in the Commission proposal comprise a policy document on patient mobility and healthcare which includes the creation of networks of health experts and centres of excellence across the EU, the coordination of assessment of new health technologies and the creation of a high level group on health services and medical care.
The second measure involves the establishment the 'open method of coordination' in support of national efforts to reform and develop healthcare in an economically sustainable way.
Thirdly, the Commission is set to adopt an action plan on e-health that will address the important role of new technologies in the healthcare sector and integrate a range of e-Health policies and activities. The plan aims to raise awareness among citizens and governments of the benefits and opportunities of e-Health, such as online and digital patient records, teleconsultation and e-prescribing, and making health care information systems interoperable cross Member States.
Quelle: Cordis, 22.04.2004
