EIT Health Germany-Switzerland publishes new EHDS Report

The newly released report, “Recommendations for Further Action when Implementing the European Health Data Space in Germany,” co-authored by EIT Health Germany-Switzerland, Siemens Healthineers, Amgen, and Medical Valley, offers crucial insights and next steps for the successful implementation of the European Health Data Space (EHDS) in Germany. 

As part of a broader European initiative, the EHDS aims to transform how health data is utilised across borders. The objective is to establish a secure and interoperable system that facilitates seamless health data exchange between EU member states. While Germany has made significant progress, challenges such as data fragmentation, complex regulations, and insufficient infrastructure continue to hinder full-scale implementation. 

The report, based on discussions held during the “Global Denken, Lokal Handeln” (Think Globally, Act Locally) workshop event in Erlangen earlier this year, outlines key recommendations to address these challenges. The focus is on ensuring Germany’s healthcare system can effectively use data in both clinical and research environments, driving innovation, improving patient outcomes, and creating new economic opportunities. 

One of the key takeaways from the report is the need to further develop local data infrastructure to support EHDS principles. It also stresses the importance of collaboration between healthcare providers, researchers, and technology companies to create more efficient data exchange mechanisms. 

“EHDS is poised to reshape healthcare in Europe,” said Dr Astrid Kaltenböck, Managing Director of EIT Health Germany-Switzerland. “For Germany, the focus now is on removing barriers like fragmented infrastructure and insufficient interoperability. With the right frameworks in place, we can not only improve patient care but also open the door to groundbreaking research and innovation.” 

The EHDS is particularly significant in the context of Germany’s Health Data Use Act (GDNG), which provides the national framework for data sharing. The report emphasises that a smooth, interoperable system across federal and state levels is crucial to fully benefit from these legislative changes. 

Key recommendations:

• Enhance data access: Streamline access to high-quality, structured health data for both public and private sectors.

• Foster interoperability: Accelerate the development of systems that ensure seamless data flow across healthcare institutions and national borders.

• Build trust through communication: Invest in public education to increase awareness of the benefits of data sharing and counter negative perceptions.

• Encourage collaboration: Support partnerships between industry, government, and healthcare providers to drive innovation and efficiency.

• Adapt regulations as needed: Ensure that laws such as the GDNG evolve to keep pace with technological advancements and international standards.

Case for action in Germany: While Germany has made strides, the report compares the country’s current digital health capabilities with other European nations, such as Finland and Denmark, which have implemented more advanced, centralised health data systems. “We’re behind,” noted Anna Goldsworthy, CEO of Medical Valley. “But the opportunity is enormous if we act now to align with EHDS standards.” 

The EHDS also opens new avenues for using health data in research and innovation. By granting researchers access to larger, more diverse datasets, Germany has the chance to reclaim its position as a leader in biotech and medtech development. 

The path ahead: Looking forward, stakeholders involved in the report emphasise that time is of the essence. Pilot projects and investment in communication are necessary to build public trust and support. With a unified approach and targeted investments, Germany can leverage the EHDS to create a more sustainable and innovative healthcare system that benefits everyone—from patients to industry. 

For more details, download the full report here.