Serbia Charts Its Course Toward EU Health Data Integration

Belgrade, May 2025 – A new report released by EIT Health InnoStars and its partners reveals how Serbia is positioning itself to align with the European Health Data Space (EHDS), the EU’s flagship initiative to create a unified framework for sharing and using health data across member states.

The white paper, “European Health Data Space: Serbia’s Path Forward”, highlights both the country’s progress and the important steps that remain to fully capitalise on a connected European digital health ecosystem.

The report – developed in collaboration with the Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution in Serbia (C4IR), Genial Science, and Takeda Balkans, a member of EIT Health – builds on high-level discussions held in Belgrade during the EIT Health Morning Health Talks series in 2024.

Growing Momentum With Opportunities Ahead

In recent years, Serbia has significantly accelerated its healthcare digitalisation efforts. The introduction of the national electronic health record system (e-karton) and a new Law on Medical Documentation and Records mark important milestones.

Still the report acknowledges that progress has been varied. Interoperability is  continuing to evolve, data governance is fragmented, and further development is needed in skills and infrastructure to fully support a broad digital transformation. Enhancing coordination across institutions remains a priority, with experts encouraging the strengthening of the Coordination Body for Digitalisation of the Health System.

Health Data as a Strategic Asset

One of the most promising areas identified is the secondary use of health data—for public health planning, AI model development, and medical research. However the report notes that this potential will be truly unlocked with better-quality registries, clear ethical guidelines, and stronger privacy protections.

Experts interviewed for the paper emphasise that these changes are not just technical upgrades—they are essential to building public trust and turning health data into a true strategic asset.

EHDS: An Opportunity for Alignment

As the EU works toward implementing the EHDS, Serbia—though not yet a member but on a clear accession path—has a promising opportunity to proactively align its systems and policies early, gaining access to tools and standards that could enhance its healthcare delivery and research capabilities.

The report presents a compelling case for swift action: harmonising with EU frameworks now could improve patient care, attract investment, and give Serbian innovators a seat at the table in shaping the future of health in Europe.

A Role for Europe’s Innovation Ecosystem

The white paper also positions EIT Health as a key driver in supporting that transition. Through programmes targeting Central, Eastern, and Southern Europe, EIT Health works with start-ups, hospitals, researchers, and policymakers to build digital capabilities, scale solutions, and reduce fragmentation across health systems.

The report’s recommendations echo EIT Health’s broader mission: to empower local ecosystems, promote cross-border collaboration, and ensure that no region is left behind as Europe moves toward a more integrated and data-driven healthcare landscape.

Read the full report  “European Health Data Space: Serbia’s Path Forward”
Learn more about  EIT Health Morning Health Talks