Economic crisis and healthcare — assessment of health systems in the EU
28.8.2017
Question for written answer E-005291-17
to the Commission
Rule 130
Theodoros Zagorakis (PPE)
In the conclusions of the Greek Presidency of the EU Council on the economic crisis and healthcare (EU 2014 217), and following the informal meeting of health ministers in Athens in April 2014, ministers agreed on the importance of reforms to overcome the crisis, the quality of health services and the need for health systems which are accessible to all. The Council called on the Member States and the Commission: (a) to assess the role of health in reducing inequalities and combating poverty; (b) to enhance the effectiveness of health systems through a health system performance assessment; (c) to encourage cooperation on the complementarity of health services; and (d) for Member States to exchange information on policies on pharmaceuticals and medical devices.
Will the Commission say:
- 1.Has it taken any initiatives in line with the conclusions of the Greek Presidency of the Council?
- 2.Has it noticed an improvement in the functioning of health systems in the EU in terms of their intended objectives? Are Member States in a position to deal with similar crises in the future?
- 3.Does it consider that health systems, especially those of Member States affected by the crisis, are more viable and more durable over time than before?