Commission recommendation (EU) 2019/243 of 6 February 2019 on a European electronic health record exchange format

Summary

The European Union’s Regulation (EU) 2016/679 ensures citizens’ rights to access and securely share personal health data, aiming to enhance healthcare quality and efficiency across borders. However, interoperability issues among Member States hinder seamless access to electronic health records (EHRs), which could streamline care, reduce costs, and support healthcare modernization. Recommendation aims to establish a framework for secure and interoperable cross-border access to electronic health records (EHRs) within the European Union. Member States are encouraged to ensure high standards of data protection and network security, support interoperability through national digital health networks, and monitor progress through annual assessments and collaboration with stakeholders. The initiative promotes the use of EU-wide tools and incentives to enhance healthcare efficiency and patient empowerment through digital health solutions.