Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) are making health services throughout Europe better and more efficient. eHealth helps professionals and their patients alike, thus enabling individuals throughout society to improve their standards of health.

Health service providers (such as public authorities and hospitals), the professionals who deliver healthcare, and their patients all benefit by the widespread introduction of eHealth services. Doctors can access patients’ medical records more easily, get immediate access to test results in the laboratory, and deliver prescriptions directly to pharmacists. Patients with heart problems can carry monitors which alert their doctor if their condition changes, yet allow them to continue with their daily business.

At EU level, the introduction of eHealth services is facilitating access to healthcare, whatever the geographical location, thanks to innovative telemedicine and Personal Health Systems. Moreover, eHealth is breaking down barriers, enabling health service providers by different Member States to work more closely together. If a particular treatment can be provided to a patient more effectively in another country, eHealth systems make it simpler to organise and carry out treatment abroad.

Suppliers of eHealth tools – such as databases for patient records, mobile monitors which transmit data automatically, or handling systems for patient call centres – also benefit by the development of a European market in the sector, which has enabled them to build a strong base which they can tackle the global market.

Europe is facing the challenge of delivering quality healthcare to all its citizens, at affordable cost. The increasing demand by citizens for best quality healthcare, the costs of managing chronic diseases, and the need for prolonged medical care for the ageing society are major factors behind this challenge. Personal Health Systems can create opportunities for everybody, including the elderly population, to receive the best available healthcare.

This conference focuses on the state-of-the-art in Personal Health Systems, such as wearable and portable health monitoring systems, and ICT-supported personalised services for extended healthcare, including home care.

The conference, organised by the European Commission, involves cooperation of several Directorates General. Sessions hold over two days and feature experts with a diverse background. Invited speakers belong to research organisations, medical device industry, healthcare organisations, user groups, Member State public administrations, policy makers, procurers and insurers.