Helping people suffering from rare and low-prevalence complex diseases
Publication metadata
European Reference Networks (ERNs) are virtual networks involving healthcare providers across Europe. They tackle rare or low prevalence complex diseases and conditions that require highly specialised treatment and a concentration of knowledge and resources. The first ERNs were approved in December 2016 and launched in March 2017. The networks comprise more than 900 highly specialised healthcare units located in 313 hospitals in 25 Member States and Norway. The 24 ERNs are working on a range of thematic issues, including bone disorders, childhood cancer and immunodeficiency. Over the next 5... years, ERNs are expected to reinforce their capacities to benefit thousands of EU patients suffering from a rare or complex condition.