eHealth in Europe: towards higher goals.

Significant events are unfolding in the field of eHealth in Europe. eHealth has been a strategic priority of the European Commission in both the eEurope 2002 and 2005 Action Plans. But how are developments on the national level progressing? The authors contrast the status-quo of eHealth in the EU-15 with the latest trends and key action priorities in the EU-25 after the Union's latest enlargement in May 2004. The initiatives and actions of the European Commission are presented vis-à-vis those of national Member States, particularly in terms of strategic priorities and implementation actions. The review is accompanied by an analysis of expert feedback on eHealth drivers and barriers.