The 2nd interactive workshop of ELLOK and PIF highlighted practical steps, institutional proposals and the importance of active citizen participation in the new era of health data.

The Hellenic Cancer Federation (ELLOK), as the National Cancer Mission Hub (NCMH), in collaboration with the Pharma Innovation Forum Greece (PIF) and with the kind support of the European Institute for Innovation through Health Data (i~HD), held on November 7, 2025, the second interactive workshop titled “Advancing the European Health Data Space in Greece: Readiness, Coordination & Implementation Pathways.”

This initiative is part of the “My Data, Our Health” series of actions, launched in the summer of 2025 and continues a broader dialogue on shaping a national strategy for the use of health data. Its goal is the sustainable integration of the European Health Data Space (EHDS) into the Greek context through the collaboration of all relevant stakeholders.

With the participation of Mr. Aris Angelis, Secretary General for Strategic Planning of the Ministry of Health, as well as representatives of the Ministry of Digital Governance, the pharmaceutical industry, healthcare professionals, the academic and research community, civil society, and patient organizations, the workshop highlighted Greece’s level of readiness and developed practical policy proposals and technical recommendations for the next steps in implementing the EHDS.

The workshop focused on preparing the mapping of national readiness for implementing the EHDS, emphasizing the secondary use of health data, strengthening coordination between public and private actors, and developing concrete proposals for a sustainable and trustworthy national policy framework. The discussion also highlighted the importance of recording available health data, establishing the Health Data Access Body (HDAB) in collaboration with IDIKA and GRNET, and developing regulatory frameworks that support both primary and secondary use of health data.

During the sessions, Greek and European experts presented recommendations on how the European framework of the EHDS could be translated into national action through practical and institutional steps tailored to Greek conditions. Proposals were discussed for shaping a coherent governance and interoperability framework for data, enabling their sustainable use for research, innovation, and patient care. Particular emphasis was placed on building trust and ensuring active citizen participation—key prerequisites for transitioning into the new era of digital health.

The four breakout sessions attracted special interest, as participants analysed the requirements and critical steps for implementing the EHDS in Greece. During these sessions, they explored the readiness and interoperability of health data, issues of access and reuse, strengthening trust and social acceptance, and designing the structure and functions of the national health data ecosystem. Participants had the opportunity to discuss proposals, identify common priorities, and shape concrete directions to accelerate the country’s preparation for the new era of health data.

At the opening of the event, the President of ELLOK, Mr. George Kapetanakis, emphasized:
“‘My Data, Our Health’ is an initiative that is not only about technology or legislation, but above all about patient participation. The new era of health data requires social consensus, transparency, trust. Through this series of workshops, we aim to co-shape the future of care and innovation with the voices of all involved stakeholders—from patients to institutional representatives and the research community.”

In turn, the General Manager of PIF, Mr. Ioannis Kotsiopoulos, stated:
“Greece has a unique opportunity to be at the forefront of digital health development in Europe. The European Health Data Space is not simply a new regulatory framework—it is a strategic choice that can transform the healthcare system, enhance research, and ensure equal access to innovation. At PIF, we continue to actively support every effort that promotes collaboration and the responsible use of data for the benefit of patients and society.”

The “My Data, Our Health” workshop series will continue throughout 2026, delving further into technical, institutional, and social issues related to the implementation of the European Health Data Space, and strengthening cooperation among health stakeholders, with the aim of developing a White Paper that will consolidate key proposals and directions for the further development of health data policy and management practices.