Most competence for action in the field of health is held by European Union Member States, but the EU has the responsibility, set out in the Treaty, to undertake certain actions which complement the work done by Member States, for example in relation to cross border health threats, patient mobility, and reducing health inequalities.
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The European Union has a vital role to play through the obligations placed on it by the European Treaties. Community actions complement the Member States’ national health policies, but at the same time bring European added value: issues such as cross-border health threats for example influenza – or free movement of patients and medical personnel need a response at European level.
A coherent and co-ordinated approach to health policy was first set out in the European Community health strategy put forward in May 2000. A new Health Strategy ‘Together for Health: A Strategic Approach for the EU 2008-2013’ was adopted on 23 October 2007.
This new Health Strategy puts in place an overarching, strategic framework for work on health at the EU level, and sets the direction of travel for the coming years. The Strategy encompasses work not only in the health sector but across all policy areas.
The Strategy focuses on four principles and three strategic themes for improving health in the EU. The principles include taking a value-driven approach, recognising the links between health and economic prosperity, integrating health in all policies, and strengthening the EU’s voice in global health.
The strategic themes include Fostering Good Health in an Ageing Europe, Protecting Citizens from Health Threats, and Dynamic Health Systems and New Technologies.
The Strategy is supported by financial tools both in DG SANCO and in other sectors, such as the 7th Framework Programme for Research, and Regional Policy funding.
Within DG SANCO, the Strategy is supported by the health programme. The Second Programme of Community Action in the Field of Health 2008-2013 will come into force from 1 January 2008. This follows the first Programme of Community action in the field of public health (2003-2008) which financed over 300 projects and other actions.
New Health Strategy, ‘Together for Health: A Strategic Approach for the EU 2008-2013’
Building on current work, this Strategy aims to provide, for the first time, an overarching strategic framework spanning core issues in health as well as health in all policies and global health issues. The Strategy aims to set clear objectives to guide future work on health at the European level, and to put in place an implementation mechanism to achieve those objectives, working in partnership with Member States.
The Strategy focuses on four principles and three strategic themes for improving health in the EU. The principles include taking a value-driven approach, recognising the links between health and economic prosperity, integrating health in all policies, and strengthening the EU’s voice in global health. The strategic themes include Fostering Good Health in an Ageing Europe, Protecting Citizens from Health Threats, and Dynamic Health Systems and New Technologies.
Source: European Commission
