Press Release: Commissioner Vassiliou welcomes the European Parliament’s positive contribution to building a ‘Europe for Patients’

On 23 April, 2009, the European Parliament voted on three important health policy initiatives; patients' rights in cross border healthcare, improving patient safety and an EU strategy on rare diseases. These actions mark an important step forward in providing patients with better opportunities and access to healthcare in Europe. The first reading vote on cross border healthcare endorses the Commission's proposal and further emphasises patients’ rights and the need for quality and safety in healthcare. Patients need clear information on their rights and conditions when seeking healthcare in another EU country. The European Parliament also highlighted in all three health votes the need for enhanced cooperation between all EU Member States, in order to pool knowledge and expertise to maximise health benefits for all.