EU public consultation on European Reference Networks

The public consultation on European Reference Networks (ERN) was launched last November 23. The ERN seats under the framework of Article 12 of Directive 2011/24/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 9 March 2011 on the application of patients’ rights in cross-border healthcare.


- Background

The Directive on the application of patients’ rights in cross-border healthcare (Directive 2011/24/EUpdf) requires the European Commission to support Member States in the development of European Reference Networks between healthcare providers and centres of expertise.

- Public Consultation

DG Health & Consumers is launching a public consultation targeted to stakeholders on the implementation of European Reference Networks (ERN) and in particular on the criteria to be considered according to Article 12 of the Directive 2011/24/EU.

A conceptual paper and a questionnaire have been prepared by Directorate General Health & Consumers.

- Target groups

Patient organisations, health professionals’ organisations and healthcare provider’s organisations, healthcare providers and centres of excellence, academic and public health and healthcare specialised institutions, etc

- Consultation period

23 November 2012 until 24 January 2013

- Objective of the consultation

The Commission consults stakeholders to receive their input and suggestions on the scope of the European Reference Network and what criteria should be used to accept new healthcare providers wishing to join the network.

- How to submit your contribution

Check the consultation’s website for further information, download the questionnaire and get the contact details of the responsible service.

Last modified on December 2 2012.