Minister for Health meets EU partners to discuss improving health data availability and mental health
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From: Department of Health
- Published on: 28 July 2023
- Last updated on: 15 August 2023
Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly is today (28 July 2023) representing Ireland at an informal meeting of EU Health Ministers in Las Palmas, Gran Canaria. This meeting of the Employment, Social Policy, Health and Consumer Affairs (EPSCO) Council is the first held under the Spanish Presidency of the Council of the European Union (July to December 2023). Health Ministers will exchange views on digital technologies and health data as foundational elements to the European Health Union and discuss how Member States can contribute to the integration of mental health in all policies and improve mental healthcare for citizens.
On the first agenda item, Minister Donnelly said:
"The digital health journey has the power and potential to transform our health services. In harnessing that potential, we must always be mindful that the views, concerns and rights of the patient in relation to their personal health information are fully respected.”
He added:
"Improving available health data sources is critical to supporting enhanced research and innovation. That is why I am actively progressing new health information legislation to promote this key area consistent with the principles and objectives of the European Health Data space."
Mental Health is also on the agenda for today’s EPSCO meeting. Minister Donnelly has already raised concerns that social media algorithms are causing profound damage to the mental health of young people. Ahead of the meeting, he noted:
"Health supports for young people, including mental health, need to reflect the modern society that young people experience, but all of society must also be aware of the way in which they use technology and engage with social media, and as policy-makers we must ensure regulations of tech firms are fit for purpose."
Minister Donnelly will also hold several bilateral meetings. The meeting will be followed by a working lunch for Ministers on EU open strategic autonomy around medicines and medical devices.