European ministers support the new Commission’s plan to create a European Health Data Space. On Monday 9 December, at the ‘Health’ Council, they stressed the importance of ensuring the interoperability and transparency of such a space.
In a debate on the economy of wellbeing with regard to mental health, ageing and digital transformation, many delegations referred to the creation of a European Health Data Space. At present, some 20 States already participate voluntarily in the e-Health network, one of the objectives of which is to achieve interoperable services and applications. Now, the Commission intends to propose such a space to “promote the exchange of health data and support research on new prevention strategies as well as on treatments, medicines, medical devices and outcomes”, as stated in the mission letter to Stella Kyriakides, the new Health Commissioner.
During the round table, Member States insisted on interoperability and the need to ensure data protection. Denmark, however, pleaded for voluntary participation. “We support an initiative that supports cross-border access to health data for patient care. However, we are more hesitant about the general exchange of health data for secondary purposes, such as research, due to data protection concerns”. On the other hand, Belgium was particularly enthusiastic: “A common approach on data standards and cybersecurity will be the best way to ensure privacy and open doors for untapped potential”.
Between these two positions, Germany has encouraged the development of codes of conduct. Romania, for its part, has supported the development of a fund in this area. (Original version in French by Sophie Petitjean)