Innovation and sustainability of European healthcare systems

VIDEO RECORDING

The EU health sector represents 10% of GDP, 15% of public expenditure and 8% of the workforce, and has high potential for innovation and growth. The market for telemedicine alone will reach €45 billion by 2020. Improvements in people's health impact productivity, labour supply, employability and workforce mobility. However, the cost of health care is expected to double by 2050 if reforms are not undertaken.

Healthcare systems in Europe need to be strengthened and modernised to provide higher value as well as greater access. In order to support and inform health system reform, smart investment and innovation in new technologies is needed. Optimal use of existing resources, including human capital, is also vital. Healthcare system reform is a competence of member states, but the EU can support these efforts through stronger country assessment, benchmarking, reference networks, knowledge exchange and technical assistance.

Healthcare systems are complex and include a myriad of stakeholders. Those often have conflicting goals, such as access to services, profitability, high quality, cost containment, safety, convenience, patient-centeredness and satisfaction. To overcome present and future challenges, building a better partnership between business, academia and regulatory authorities is essential. As a key economic sector, driven by innovation, health requires a predictable and fit-for-purpose regulatory environment conducive to growth, high-skilled jobs and higher global standards.

• How can the EU support the efforts of healthcare systems in Europe to effectively and efficiently deliver the greatest value for EU citizens, while promoting sustainable growth?
• How can the performance and accountability of healthcare systems in Europe be improved?
• What can the EU do to support innovation in health?
• How can the EU contribute to a growth friendly environment in health?

Event Materials

Effective, accessible and resilient health systems | Communication from the European Commission

Event Notes