The objective of EHDS is to ensure that health data:
- is more easily accessible for patients
- can be securely exchanged between Member States
- can be responsibly used for research, innovation, and policymaking
The Two Main Pillars of EHDS
Primary Use (Patient Care)
This pillar focuses on improving individual patient care through better access to health data.
- Easier access to personal medical records
- Seamless digital interoperability across the EU
- More efficient data exchange between healthcare providers and institutions
This pillar is closely connected to MyHealth@EU, which enables cross-border health data exchange.
Secondary Use (Research and Innovation)
This pillar enables the use of health data—under strict safeguards and in anonymised or pseudonymised form—for broader societal benefits.
- Scientific research
- Development of healthcare innovations
- Statistical analysis
- Evidence-based health policymaking at EU level
This supports faster development of new treatments, more effective medicines, and more accurate health insights.
Why is EHDS important?
- Improved patient experience
- Secure and well-regulated data governance
- Accelerated research and innovation
- A harmonised European health data framework
- Greater control for individuals over their own health data