A major change is coming to how health data is governed across Europe. Through our EHDS Unpacked initiative, we are cutting through the complexity of the European Health Data Space, demystifying what it means for the UK, how it can create opportunities for UK-EU collaboration, and why it matters internationally.
The European Health Data Space (EHDS) is the European Union’s new framework for organising and using health data more safely, simply and consistently across EU countries. It is designed to strengthen individuals’ rights to access and control their own digital health information while establishing clear, harmonised rules that support responsible data use for healthcare, research, innovation and better policymaking. By improving how health data is shared and protected, the EHDS aims to empower citizens and enable more effective cross‑border care, as well as advance scientific and policy progress across the EU.
The EHDS is designed to help EU health systems work together more smoothly, and holds two main objectives:
Even though the UK isn’t in the EU, this still matters. Standards set in Europe often shape global expectations – from how data is shared to what “good” looks like on transparency and trust. Equally, many of the structures it introduces are similar to those already in place in England, meaning UK organisations may have useful lessons to contribute as Member States develop their own systems.
TEHDAS2 (Towards the European Health Data Space 2) is a collaboration of 30 European countries working on the practical guidance for how health data can be used for research, innovation and public health in the EHDS.
A major part of TEHDAS2 is its public consultations, which test draft operational guidance with a wide range of contributors, including international partners.
Find out more about TEHDAS2 here.
The UK cannot formally join the EHDS before 2035, but the choices being made now will shape the rules and expectations that third countries may later need to work within. TEHDAS2 is defining how collaboration, data linking, and citizen information will operate in practice – making this a critical moment for the UK to observe, learn and contribute.
Early engagement is not about negotiating access. It is about understanding how the system is taking shape, influencing emerging norms where appropriate, and ensuring future UK policy is grounded in real evidence, public expectations and practical experience. As the UK develops its own approaches – and a new Health Data Research Service alongside trusted research environments and debates on transparency and consent – there is real value in understanding where European approaches align or diverge.
TEHDAS2 focuses on:
The next TEHDAS2 consultation will run from May – June 2026. It will cover:
Find out more here.
To cut through the complexity of the EHDS, Understanding Patient Data is hosting EHDS Unpacked, a two‑part webinar series designed to make sense of this major change and explore what it means for the UK and internationally.
Part One, featuring a keynote from Professor Andrew Morris (HDR UK), Tim Hubbard (ELIXIR), will see leading UK experts unpack what the EHDS could mean for UK research, policy, and innovation. Part Two brings together third‑country experts to share global perspectives and practical lessons, led by a keynote from Prof. Dr. Henrique Martins (former CMIO for Portugal).
Across both sessions, you’ll gain clear insight into what the EHDS actually is, what it means, and where the key opportunities lie, from trusted research environments to global collaboration.
Register here to get ahead of the curve.
1pm - 3pm GMT, 23 April 2026
The first of two sessions will give attendees a structured and accessible introduction to the EHDS. Delivered through an impressive line-up of UK experts, the session will explain why the EHDS matters for the UK, and what new standards, expectations, and cross-border research requirements are emerging from Europe. It will explore real-world implications, from what it means for people, researchers and health systems in the UK to how global shifts – including AI – make understanding the EHDS essential.
10am - 12pm GMT, 12 May 2026
The second EHDS Unpacked webinar will share real examples from countries transforming their use of health data and preparing for the EHDS. We’ll explore what their experiences can teach the UK – from building public confidence to working across borders and managing practical and cultural challenges. International colleagues directly involved in this work will outline the steps they’re taking, the challenges they face, and what helps them progress, offering insights to support the UK and other non‑EU countries with long‑term planning.
Understanding Patient Data is acting as an independent convenor, facilitating engagement and bringing together experts from across the UK health data space to help raise awareness and encourage participation in TEHDAS2 consultations over the coming months.
As part of this work, we’re keen to hear from people across health, research, policy and patient communities who want to share insights or highlight areas of interest as the EHDS develops. Your perspectives help ensure our work reflects real experiences and public expectations.
You can also stay connected by signing up for updates on our latest outputs, events and opportunities to contribute. Whether you’re looking to follow developments, offer expertise or participate more actively, we welcome your interest as we continue exploring what the EHDS means for people and the health system
The EHDS is set to transform how health data is accessed and used across Europe, creating safer, simpler and more consistent standards for care, research and policymaking. Although the UK is no longer in the EU, these changes still matter.
Understanding Patient Data is incredibly grateful to Wellcome Trust’s funding, in helping UK organisations engage early with the EHDS. As Martin Smith, Head of Policy Lab at Wellcome Trust, shares below, understanding the EHDS is crucial for UK-EU health data collaboration.
"We’re excited to support UPD as they help UK stakeholders engage with the development of the European Health Data Space. Understanding and shaping EHDS now will create opportunities for UK-EU collaboration on health data, making research more efficient and impactful across the UK and Europe."
- Martin Smith, Head of Policy Lab, Wellcome Trust