Launch of the activity of the first European Reference Networks

The first European Reference Networks started their activity on 1 March 2017. These ERNs gather over 900 highly specialised healthcare units from 26 countries working together on a wide range of rare diseases.

The networks are virtual networks bringing together healthcare providers across Europe to tackle complex or rare medical conditions that require highly specialised treatment and a concentration of knowledge and resources.

Their setup is found in the framework of the EU Directive Patients' Rights in Healthcare (2011/24/EU).

• Primary Source

EurActiv, 01.03.17: Commission launches reference networks to face rare and complex diseases http://www.euractiv.com/section/health-consumers/news/commission-launches-reference-networks-to-face-rare-and-complex-diseases/

ESO: Key Source: European Reference Networks (ERNs) http://www.europeansources.info/record/european-reference-networks-erns/

European Commission: DG Communication: MEMO/17/324, 28.02.17: Questions and Answers about European Reference Networks http://europa.eu/rapid/press-release_MEMO-17-324_en.htm

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