European Parliament prepares for health commissioner nominations

The European Parliament is preparing for the nomination of a new health commissioner, with the process still in its early stages. Currently, only Cyprus has nominated a candidate with relevant health experience, biologist Costas Kadis, who previously served as health minister for a brief period. The health portfolio has historically been less prioritized compared to other roles, but its significance has increased due to the pandemic, highlighting the need for coordinated European action in health matters. As the nomination process unfolds, a comprehensive dossier is being prepared to address potential questions during the upcoming hearings. This initiative aims to facilitate substantial investments in research and development for medical countermeasures, although it is contingent on securing an adequate budget. The memo also suggests enhancing the 'One Health' approach through improved coordination among member states and greater involvement of European agencies in global health discussions. In addition, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) is being encouraged to expand its mandate to include non-communicable diseases, reflecting the growing demand for action in areas such as cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases. This shift aligns with a broader focus on enhancing Europe’s competitiveness in the health sector. Furthermore, discussions are ongoing regarding innovative pricing and reimbursement models for medicines, as well as the establishment of an Advanced Research Projects Agency for medical research. These developments indicate a proactive approach to addressing the challenges faced by the pharmaceutical sector and improving public health outcomes across Europe.