Press Release: Digital Agenda: Commission seeks views on improving healthcare by applying ICT (eHealth)

The European Commission is seeking citizens' and other interested parties' views on how the EU can help to deliver widespread benefits to the quality and efficiency of healthcare by applying information and communication technologies (ICT) (so-called 'eHealth').

ICT is already playing a central role in addressing the numerous challenges faced by healthcare systems across the EU including an ageing population, a rise in chronic diseases, budget cuts and a shortage of healthcare workers by for example allowing remote diagnosis, remote monitoring of patients' condition and secure sharing of patient records between healthcare professionals.

However, there is considerable potential to develop eHealth much further in the future. eHealth can also make an important contribution to allowing people, especially older people, to enjoy more dignified and independent lives. More and more patients are pro-actively using technology to learn about illnesses and even to manage their conditions. eHealth will never replace the human touch but it can enable healthcare workers to dedicate more time to direct contacts with patients. Promoting eHealth is a key objective of the Digital Agenda for Europe.

The online public consultation runs until 25 May. The answers will feed into the preparation of the eHealth Action Plan 2012-2020 that the Commission is due to present before the end of 2011.

ESO: Background Information: Doctors cautious about 'disruptive impact' of eHealth http://www.europeansources.info/record/doctors-cautious-about-disruptive-impact-of-ehealth/

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