Digital Health position

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of digital technologies in dental care, leading to innovations in remote consultations and treatments.

Recognizing this, the WHO’s Global Strategy on Oral Health, supported by the EU, advocates for the continued development and application of these digital tools to improve oral health and manage diseases. The strategy emphasizes the need for standards based on best practices and evidence to ensure these technologies are effective and sustainable.

Since the publication of this position, the EU has made strides in developing solutions that could support digital health applications.

Most notably, the European Health Data Space (EHDS) is set to revolutionise the telemedicine landscape by enhancing data accessibility and control for individuals. This could mean that telemedicine services can be more readily available and efficient, as the regulation addresses interoperability standards and data-sharing mechanisms. This initiative is expected to enhance the efficiency of telemedicine, including teledentistry, and support the European Health Union.

Key elements of the paper

1. Guiding and supporting digital health initiatives for oral health

  • The European Commission to guide the use of digital technology in future initiatives to improve oral health as part of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) prevention.
  • The European Commission to provide resources and support to Member States for swift and secure access to electronic health records, including dental records, and to enable cross-border data sharing via MyHealth@EU.
  • EU4Health resources to be allocated by the European Commission for Member States to train citizens and professionals in digital health skills, promoting digital tools for improved oral health.

2. Integrating and supporting teledentistry across the EU

  • Teledentistry to be integrated into the national telehealth strategies of the Member States.
  • Member States to create reimbursement schemes for teledentistry, ensuring broad and fair access.
  • A comprehensive telehealth policy framework, including teledentistry, to be developed by the European Commission to ensure the use of scientifically validated digital technologies that meet EU quality and safety standards.

3. Promoting digital health campaigns for NCD prevention

  • EU Member States to run health promotion campaigns using digital tools to reduce NCDs and improve oral health through healthy lifestyles.