Outcome of public consultation on the implementation of European Reference Networks (ERN)

On 23 November 2012, the Commission launched a public consultation targeted to stakeholders on the implementation of European Reference Networks (ERN).  

The Directive on the application of patients' rights in cross-border healthcare requires the European Commission to support Member States in the development of European Reference Networks between healthcare providers and centres of expertise. The main added value of the European Reference Networks and the Centres of Excellence is to facilitate improvements in access to diagnosis and delivery of high-quality, accessible and cost-effective healthcare in the case of patients who have a medical condition requiring a concentration of expertise or resources, particularly in medical domains where expertise is rare.  European Reference Networks could also be focal points for medical training and research, information dissemination and evaluation, especially for rare diseases. 

The objective of the consultation was to receive input as to how the criteria for the scope and for European Reference Networks and the healthcare providers wishing to join the network could be addressed and facilitated. 

For more information:http://ec.europa.eu/health/cross_border_care/consultations/cons_implementation_ern_en.htm