Thu Sep 26 14:15:04 UTC 2024: ## European Health Data Space: Experts Raise Concerns Over Potential Pitfalls
**Brussels, Belgium -** A group of leading experts from across Europe have issued a warning regarding the European Health Data Space (EHDS), the European Commission’s ambitious plan to facilitate secure and cross-border access to health data. While acknowledging the potential benefits of increased data sharing for research, innovation, and policymaking, the experts express concern that the current proposal could have unintended negative consequences.
The EHDS aims to empower citizens with greater control over their health data, while also enabling its use for secondary purposes. However, the expert group, composed of specialists in health policy, law, ethics, and social sciences, argues that the current draft could:
* **Undermine patient control over their data:** Instead of enhancing control, the proposal could lead to less transparency and less choice for individuals.
* **Hinder the work of health professionals and researchers:** Complex regulations and bureaucratic processes might create obstacles rather than facilitate efficient data access and collaboration.
* **Erode the public value of health data sharing:** The focus on facilitating access for commercial entities might overshadow the need for public health research and social good.
The experts emphasize the importance of health data for secondary purposes but urge the European Commission to address these concerns before finalizing the EHDS. They propose specific policy recommendations aimed at strengthening patient rights, streamlining data access procedures, and prioritizing public health benefits.
The European Commission is expected to finalize the EHDS Regulation in the coming months. The expert group’s recommendations will be crucial in shaping the final legislation and ensuring that the EHDS truly delivers on its promise of improving healthcare across Europe.
First Piper 