In its summary of the consultation, the European Commission acknowledges many of the contributions made by the health community. Several elements of EPHA’s contribution are taken into account in the summary of the consultation.
The general points made by the contributors to this consultation are listed below:
Support to the cross-border nature of health. An approach wich emphasizes the idea of "health in all policies" and supports the EU engagement in global issues. Several contributors also mentioned the need to coordinate with other international organisations such as the World Health Organisation.
Definition of the objectives of the Strategy in the short and long term. Setting objectives was considered to be of major importance for the health strategy.
Involving stakeholders in the drafting of the health strategy and in other policy initiatives in the health field.
Called for enhanced coordination at the EU and national level. Member States have to link their actions to the actions at EU level but they also have to develop a sense of ownership of the strategy.
Use of the Open Method of Coordination to achieve the objectives set out by the EU Health Strategy. Some contributors also suggested a European level structure to oversee the implementation of the strategy.
Stressed the need to improve health information to support the health strategy and called for the development of common data.
Taking these positions into account, the Commission will adopt the new health strategy later this year.
