Commission proposes new measures to improve health and the healthcare sector

The European Commission has put forward a raft of new measures that will improve the health of Europeans and contribute to a more modern, efficient, and resilient healthcare sector in the EU. 

The proposals focus on three main areas. 

Building a world-leading health biotech industry 
The Commission has proposed a biotech act to support innovation and increase Europe's biotechnology potential. Measures include

• a new EU investment facility to make it easier for biotech companies to access funding
• targeted support for high-impact projects to boost bio-manufacturing 

The package will also speed up clinical trials approvals across countries, fast-track development of cutting-edge new therapies, and simplify EU rules to reduce costs for companies. 

Tackling cardiovascular diseases 
The Commission has also presented a ‘Safe Hearts’ plan to address cardiovascular diseases, Europe’s leading cause of death. EU-funded actions should improve prevention, detection and treatment. The plan will also

• empower individuals with personalised prediction tools and therapies
• bridge research gaps and use artificial intelligence, and digital health solutions
• reduce health inequalities and improve access to healthcare 

Simplifying rules for the development of medical devices 
EU rules for medical devices will be simplified to cut unnecessary costs, and reduce uncertainty for companies, and delays for patients. The measures also include more digital procedures and clear timelines for conformity assessments to speed up access to medical devices. In addition, the strengthened European Medicines Agency will monitor shortages of medical devices, and create a list of critical devices.

These combined measures will prioritise patients’ health and safety as well as ensure the long-term resilience and competitiveness of the health sector. 

For more information 
Factsheet: Biotech Act
Factsheet: Safe Hearts Plan
Factsheet: Medical Devices
Questions and answers on the Biotech Act
Questions and answers on the Safe Hearts Plan
Questions and answers on the Medical Devices

Press release: New measures to make EU health sector more innovative, competitive and resilient