On 6 November 2026, EUREGHA’s Working Group on Digital Transformation brought together regional representatives and European experts for an exchange on regional practices in digital health innovation, citizens’ engagement, and the latest developments in the European Health Data Space (EHDS).
The meeting focused on how regional health systems can leverage digital tools, artificial intelligence and health data to improve healthcare delivery, strengthen collaboration between stakeholders and ensure more accessible, efficient and citizen-centred health services.
South Sweden (Eva Molander) presented regional practices in health and care innovation across the Småland, Blekinge, Halland and South Sweden regions. The presentation highlighted the region’s collaborative approach, bringing together regional authorities, universities and innovation ecosystems to promote digital health solutions. Examples included Region Kalmar’s eHealth Arena, Region Kronoberg’s AI-supported breast cancer screening and use of virtual reality in forensic mental healthcare, Region Jönköping’s Esther Model and exploration of AI solutions based on person-centred care, and Region Halland’s information-driven care approach and Leap for Life innovation arena. The presentation also showcased the importance of patient involvement and co-creation, particularly through the initiative From Patient to Co-Creator: Building Equitable Health with AI, which explored how AI can support more inclusive and equitable healthcare systems.
European Commission (Dana Eleftheriadou, DG SANTE) provided an update on the implementation of the European Health Data Space (EHDS), established by Regulation (EU) 2025/327. The presentation covered the two main dimensions of the framework: primary use of health data, supporting healthcare delivery and cross-border access, and secondary use, enabling secure access to health data for research, innovation and public interest purposes. Particular attention was given to the implementation timeline, the development of implementing acts, and the expansion of the MyHealth@EU infrastructure. The discussion also highlighted the importance of stakeholder engagement, data quality, interoperability, privacy safeguards and citizens’ trust in ensuring the successful implementation of the EHDS. Updates were also provided on the newly launched EHDS Stakeholder Community and the forthcoming Stakeholder Forum, which will provide opportunities for stakeholders to contribute to the governance and implementation of the framework.
EUREGHA Secretariat (Marco Di Donato) presented updates on upcoming European funding opportunities and initiatives in digital health. The session included a matchmaking overview of regional interests in forthcoming Horizon Europe 2027 Health calls, covering topics such as artificial intelligence in healthcare, Virtual Human Twins, predictive biomarkers, disability and independent living, climate adaptation and non-communicable diseases. Updates were also shared on the EU4Health 2026 Digital Health calls, including opportunities related to EHDS readiness, AI compliance, healthcare innovation and the development of AI-driven prevention and early detection solutions. Furthermore, the Secretariat presented upcoming Innovative Health Initiative (IHI) calls, Horizon Europe information days and brokerage events, as well as relevant European events, including the TEHDAS2 Final Conference and the conference Shaping EHDS from the Ground Up: Regions and People at the Heart of Europe’s Health Data Space. Members were encouraged to exchange interests and explore potential partnerships around forthcoming funding opportunities.
The meeting reaffirmed the importance of regional cooperation, citizen engagement and cross-sectoral partnerships in advancing digital transformation in healthcare. By showcasing innovative regional practices, discussing the implementation of the EHDS and identifying opportunities for joint projects, EUREGHA’s Working Group on Digital Transformation continues to support regional and local health authorities in shaping a more connected, innovative and equitable European health ecosystem.
About the Working Group on Digital Transformation:
The Working Group on Digital Transformation serves as a platform for EUREGHA members – regional representatives and experts – to exchange knowledge, experiences and best practices on digital health innovation and the transformation of healthcare systems. The group promotes collaboration between regional and local authorities, healthcare providers, research institutions and other relevant stakeholders, supporting the uptake of digital solutions and the development of more integrated, accessible and citizen-centred healthcare across Europe.
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