EPF congratulates new European Commission and emphasises collaborative efforts for patient-centred healthcare

The European Patients’ Forum (EPF) extends congratulations to Olivér Várhelyi, EU Commissioner for Health and Animal Welfare, and Hadja Lahbib, EU Commissioner for Equality, Preparedness and Crisis Management, for their investiture as part of the new European Commission mandate.

At this critical juncture, EPF emphasises that the health of European citizens is a fundamental right that must remain a priority on the political agenda. 

As we welcome the new Commissioners, we encourage health initiatives that align with the vision for equitable healthcare across Europe. EPF looks forward to collaborating on key policy areas, including access to healthcare, the revision of the pharmaceutical legislation, and the implementation of the health technology assessment and medical devices regulations. Additionally, we aim to amplify patient advocacy on antimicrobial resistance and support the rollout of the European Health Data Space and the ethical use of Artificial Intelligence in healthcare.

We will continue to support EU efforts to increase preparedness for future health crises and translate the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic into more resilient healthcare systems. In line with our #Vote4Patients campaign, a critical component of these efforts will be empowering patient organisations to engage on these topics and ensuring they have access to unrestricted, solid and long-term operating funding for their daily activities. 

EPF is prepared to collaborate with the new Commissioners in charge of health and preparedness, and with the whole European Commission college, to amplify patient voices and co-create health policies that genuinely reflect the realities faced by patients across Europe.

We stand ready to support the Commission in implementing an inclusive, person-centred health agenda.