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A number of factors are making health policies and health systems across the European Union increasingly interconnected:
Providing clear rules and reliable information to patients regarding access and reimbursement for healthcare received in another EU country. The new "national contact points" will do this.
Meeting patients' expectations of the highest quality healthcare, which are even higher when they seek treatment away from home. The information given by national contact points on healthcare quality and patient safety will help them make informed choices before going abroad for healthcare.
Ensuring EU countries work closer together in the interest of patients.
Clearing up years of legal uncertainty. The new rules also strike the right balance between maintaining the sustainability of health systems while protecting patients' right to seek treatment outside their home country.
Directive 2011/24/EU on patients’ rights in cross-border healthcare
clarifies the rules on access to healthcare in another EU country, including reimbursement.
EU countries have until 25 October 2013 to pass their own laws implementing the Directive.