The EU4Health programme stands as the largest health initiative of the European Union. Launched in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, it has been allocated over €5.1 billion for the 2021–2027 funding period. The main objectives of the programme are to reinforce the healthcare systems of Member States, enhance preparedness for public health emergencies, and foster healthier lifestyles among European citizens.

Main Objectives of EU4Health

EU4Health aims to deliver an effective response to health crises while driving the long-term improvement of healthcare systems across Europe. Its primary goals include:

• Strengthening disease prevention and promoting healthy habits.
• Ensuring the availability and affordability of medicines and medical devices, particularly during crisis periods.
• Advancing digital health and expanding healthcare cooperation between Member States.
• Reducing health inequalities across different Member States.

Key Support Areas

The programme funds a wide array of initiatives and projects. Key priorities include:

• EU Beating Cancer Plan: Tackling cancer through preventive measures, early diagnosis, and innovative treatments.
• Healthcare Digitalisation: Creating the European Health Data Space (EHDS).
• Health Security: Reinforcing the roles of the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA).
• Mental Health: Placing increased focus on mental well-being as a vital component of overall public health.

New Financial Framework and the 2028–2034 Period

In July 2025, the European Commission proposed integrating EU4Health into the European Competitiveness Fund as part of a broader merger involving 14 EU programmes. Under this framework, EU4Health will continue its mission through four primary pillars:

• Crisis Preparedness: Addressing chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear threats, as well as managing emergency stockpiles.
• Health Promotion and Disease Prevention: Targeting cancer prevention, non-communicable diseases, mental health, and vaccination initiatives.
• Healthcare Systems: Supporting healthcare workforces, screening programs, and rare disease management.
• Digital Transformation: Building out the European Health Data Space and integrating AI into medical practices.