In May 2026, we commissioned Health Connect Partners to cut through the complexity of the EHDS, synthesising the third TEHDAS2 consultation to a select group of UK experts. This report, informed by real-world insights, explores key developments and implications of this major change in health data for UK organisations.
Background
The European Health Data Space (EHDS) is a new EU framework designed to enable the secure and trusted use of health data for research, innovation and policy. While the UK is not part of the EU, the environment the EHDS creates will influence how health data is accessed and used internationally. This report, EHDS Teach-in: Third country involvement and collaboration framework, explains the implications of the final TEHDAS2 consultation and shares reflections from UK experts, exploring what these proposals may mean in practice and how UK organisations might respond over time.
What we did
In May 2026, Understanding Patient Data (UPD), working with Health Connect Partners and supported by Wellcome, convened a teach‑in with UK experts. The session explored emerging TEHDAS2 guidance on how the EHDS could operate, including proposals on cross‑border data access, collaboration and transparency.
With the consultation closing on 28 June 2026, discussions focused on sense‑checking these early proposals and identifying areas where further clarity or input may be needed.
Key insights
- The role of the UK in relation to the EHDS is still evolving, with no clear government position yet.
- However, there was broad agreement that EU developments are likely to shape the wider research and innovation landscape, including expectations around data access and standards.
- Participants highlighted the importance of governance, transparency and public involvement, building on existing UK experience.
- There is a risk of divergence over time if alignment is not actively considered, particularly for cross‑border research.
Explore further UK expert insights in the full report.
Looking ahead
As the EHDS moves from policy to implementation, the immediate question for the UK is less about formal participation and more about how to stay informed and aligned where appropriate.
There may be opportunities to contribute UK expertise and to shape future approaches to collaboration. At this stage, the focus is on understanding the direction of travel and keeping options open.
Explore further future opportunities in the full report.
How to respond to the consultation
The TEHDAS2 consultation remains open until 28 June 2026. It provides an opportunity to comment on draft guidance covering areas such as third‑country access, collaboration and data use.
Practical, evidence‑based feedback – particularly where proposals may be unclear or challenging in real‑world settings – will be most useful in shaping how the EHDS develops.
Acknowledgements
This work was developed by Understanding Patient Data in collaboration with Health Connect Partners, with generous support from Wellcome Trust.
We are equally grateful to the UK experts who contributed their time and insights to the teach‑in, helping to strengthen understanding of the EHDS and its potential implications for the UK.