EHDS

The European Health Data Space (EHDS) is an EU initiative designed to create a common framework for the use and exchange of health data across member states. Its stated aim is to improve patient care, support public health, and stimulate medical research and innovation by enabling secure access to electronic health data for authorized users, both for care delivery and for secondary uses such as research.

Scope and data types

EHDS encompasses electronic health data generated in care settings, including electronic health records, prescriptions, laboratory results, imaging, and related metadata. It also covers data used in health research and policy-making, when appropriately de-identified or pseudonymized and governed by consent and legal basis. The initiative seeks interoperable standards and common governance to facilitate cross-border data sharing while protecting privacy and data quality.

Governance and infrastructure

Implementation rests on EU-level governance, national authorities, and specialized bodies that approve data access requests. The EHDS builds on the existing eHealth Digital Service Infrastructure (eHDSI), which currently supports cross-border exchange of health information such as ePrescriptions and related services, and aims to broaden data types and users over time. National contact points and data access boards are envisioned to coordinate permissions, ensure compliance, and oversee data use.

Rights, privacy, and security

Under EHDS, individuals retain rights to access their health data and to request portability. Access for secondary uses generally requires appropriate consent, legal basis, or de-identification. Data protection is aligned with the GDPR, with technical safeguards such as pseudonymization, encryption, strict access controls, and audit trails to mitigate risks.

Status and outlook

As a long-term EU policy, EHDS is being implemented through regulatory measures, pilot projects, and national rollouts. While progress varies by country, the framework aims to enable safer, broader, and more efficient use of health data for care and research across Europe.