Euractiv Health Capitals

Bulgaria’s telemedicine proposal sparks backlash over state monopoly

Under proposed rules, all remote consultations between patients and doctors would have to be conducted exclusively through the state-run digital infrastructure.

EU must take lead role on pharma, and patient access, says Czech minister

Belgian drug cost crisis needs tough medicine, Vandenbroucke prescribes remedy

The pharmaceutical industry is expected to cover 57% of the additional €466 million expected for the 2026 budget, through a reinforced clawback mechanism and budgetary guarantees.

Irish AI start-up targets chemotherapy bottlenecks with remote assessment platform

A new AI platform enables patients to complete chemotherapy toxicity assessments remotely in under six minutes, delivering cost savings and clinical efficiency gains.

Bulgarian hospital fraud going unchecked despite patient digital verification app

Low uptake of the digital verification tool enabling citizen oversight of health services is weakening system safeguards.

Denmark’s boosts specialist doctor numbers with new training plan

As early as next year, up to 1,270 students a year can start training to become medical specialists. Currently, Denmark has a shortage of 2,000 specialists in hospitals and general practice.

Czechia tackles healthcare workforce age timebomb

A new training programme is a preventive step, allowing universities to admit at least 20% more students to ensure the long-term sustainability of Czechia's healthcare workforce.

Bulgarian court ruling widens access to lifesaving drugs

Judges strike down age-based restrictions in landmark ruling, adding pressure to a healthcare system already stretched by rising costs and expanded patient rights.

Polish EU presidency wrap-up highlights health wins

Over six intense months, Polish authorities advanced legislative and strategic priorities safeguarding youth mental health, bolstering cancer prevention, digital health, and pharmaceutical security.

Belgian MEP Sommen says ‘predictability is vital’ from pharma trilogue

As Commissioner Várhelyi pushes to finalise a pharma deal in 2025, the Belgian MEP sees common institutional approaches emerging, but she cautions against a system that rewards only marginal improvements.

Anonymous data skewing Dutch vaccine stats, cultural views impacting uptake

The Dutch government aims to address complex vaccine trends. Families from migrant backgrounds likely to see vaccine awareness push.

Greek MEPs demand tariff-free trade in medicines as new deadline looms

Greek MEPs Papandreou and Tsiodras warn that US pharma tariffs threaten health and supply chains, urging the Commission to react accordingly.

Bulgarian drug procurement bill blocked, defying EU infringement process

The drug purchasing reform is demanded by the European Commission. Sofia risks EU sanctions over a lack of public tenders in private hospitals.

Greece welcomes WHO resolution targeting rare diseases

The resolution aims to address the chronic challenges faced by over 300 million people globally. The WHO Director-General will lead stakeholders in crafting a detailed, actionable roadmap.

Sweden launches medicines inquiry to prevent drug shortages, prepare for crises

Sweden's 21 regions currently decide medicines purchasing independently, which could be problematic in acute situations, such as a pandemic, or war.

Bulgarian healthcare workers launch protest over low wages

Protesters are calling for legislative guarantees to enforce minimum wages in the health sector. Discontent is spreading and no clear resolution is in sight.

EU court strikes down Poland’s pharmacy advertising ban

Pharmacy owners were fined for displaying signs about card payments, and during the pandemic, patients weren’t informed that vaccinations were available in pharmacies.

Swedish hospital bed crisis could last until 2033

A bed shortage is forcing Swedish doctors to discharge patients prematurely every week - funding and management issues are to blame.

Belgian biotech stakeholders urge EU to fast-track innovation and financing reforms

Responding to the European Commission’s call for evidence, Biovia says regulatory delays, fragmented markets, and lack of capital are costing Europe its biotech edge.

Ireland launches long-term sexual health strategy amid rising STI rates

Ireland is tackling the growing problem of sexually transmitted infections now faced by most of Europe. Prevention and inclusiveness are at the centre of the new strategy, with an enhanced pharmacy role.

Greece accelerates digital health plan with new infrastructure and drug pricing reforms

Greece is pushing ahead with a transitional compensation scheme for innovation, while also focusing on developing data infrastructure.

Poland’s overhaul of drug reimbursement system opens for public consultation

The Polish government’s new draft law on drug reimbursement aims to streamline procedures, empower patients, and ensure faster and more transparent access to essential therapies.

Ireland’s Sláintecare health reform risks mission creep, needs clearer vision

Without a solidly integrated digital data-driven health system, Ireland’s chronic disease burden will sink the boat. More ambition is needed, urgently.

Ireland pledges €21.6m to Gavi as EU reaffirms global vaccine leadership

Global health equity at the heart of Taoiseach Micheál Martin’s message. WHO says vaccination is still a leading health investment.