[PIO] Minister of Health Michael Damianos represented Cyprus at the 2nd International Conference on Technology and Innovation of South East Europe

A series of questions regarding efforts to promote e-health, investment opportunities in the field of health data and the introduction of the European Health Data Space Regulation were answered, among others, by the Minister of Health Mr.Michael Damianos, who represented Cyprus at the 2nd International Conference on Technology and Innovation of Southeast Europe, which took place in Thessaloniki.

Regarding the Promotion and Implementation of e-Health, the Minister of Health mentioned, in his intervention, that the National e-Health Authority promotes:

1. The better exchange and access to different types of health data (electronic health records, genomic data, data from patient registries, etc.).
2. The development of a common European health data space to support healthcare delivery, but also for research and policy-making purposes.
3. The development of a health data system that fully protects citizens' personal data and enhances data portability, in line with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

On Investment and Collaboration Opportunities in the Health Data Sector, Damianos noted that the health data sector presents significant investment opportunities, which can contribute to a new era of possibilities for the benefit of patients, society and the economy. "Cyprus," Damianos said, "is an important tourist destination both at European and international level. The digital transformation of the health sector can further contribute to the qualitative upgrading of its tourism character."

In relation to the introduction of the European Health Data Space Regulation, the Health Minister said that Cyprus is investing in the implementation of the new regulation, which will facilitate access and exchange of health data across borders. Citizens will have faster and easier electronic access to their health data, regardless of the Member State in which they are located, enhancing cooperation between Member States.

Damianos indicated: "Cyprus, in fulfilling its European obligations, has played an essential role over the last 24 months in discussing the proposal for the European Health Data Space Regulation, which has recently been adopted by the European Parliament and will be implemented from next autumn." He added that this Regulation also incorporates the positions of our national legislation on the promotion and implementation of eHealth.

(MS/NYAN)
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