Prof Przemysław Mitkowski.jpgThe Polish Presidency of the Council of the EU hosted a high-level conference in Warsaw on 25 February 2025 to accelerate implementation of the Council Conclusions on improving cardiovascular health, adopted unanimously by EU Health Ministers in December 2024.

The ESC welcomed this landmark agreement and showcased its support for the development of an EU Cardiovascular Health Plan, ensuring commitments translate into concrete action.

The Warsaw event brought together policymakers, patient advocates, and leading cardiology experts to share strategies for national cardiovascular health plans. Speakers highlighted the need for coordinated approaches while addressing inequalities in access to care.

The conference also explored regulatory challenges and the role of health data, coinciding with the European Commission’s evaluation of the Medical Devices Regulation, which was published later in the year alongside the EU Cardiovascular Health Plan. ESC has called for urgent revision of the MDR to prevent disruptions in access to essential cardiology devices and safeguard innovation.

ESC proposes a centralised system for device certification, priority pathways for breakthrough technologies, and enhanced data infrastructure to monitor safety and performance. These reforms, alongside clarity on the AI Act and European Health Data Space, are vital to making Europe a leader in cardiovascular innovation.