The Expert Panel on ‘effective ways of investing in health’ has adopted its opinion on public procurement in healthcare systems. As part of this opinion, the Expert Panel examines the tendering of pharmaceuticals, health technology and e-Health. In each case, they identify a series of challenges relating to the complexity of the procurement process, imbalances in power on each side of transactions, and the role of procurement in promoting broader public policy objectives.
The recommendations aim to strengthen the procurement process, stressing the importance of public policy goals and, specifically, the interests of patients. Further recommendations encourage organisations to develop the necessary skills and expertise for healthcare specific public procurement, and highlight the need for stronger action on corruption and for improving public procurement during emergencies. Stakeholders discussed the opinion during a public hearing on 3 February 2021.
The Expert Panel on effective ways of investing in health is an interdisciplinary and independent group established by the European Commission to provide non-binding independent advice on matters related to effective, accessible and resilient health systems.
The opinion is available at:
More information on the Expert Panel:
