The Commission’s proposal is timely and represents a high degree of added value for the EU. It constitutes a further step towards closer EU integration, especially necessary in an area as critical as health. The fundamental aim of the proposal is to introduce a joint clinical assessment of health technologies at EU level. The right to health is a fundamental right. It is important to the integrity of the individual, but also a key factor in social cohesion and economic productivity. However, the Union requires better clinical evidence as the basis for determining the relative efficacy and therapeutic benefits of medicines, i.e. quality. Further, there are serious concerns about the growing difficulties faced by European citizens in terms of accessing suitable treatment in the EU. The proposals suggest a directive is necessary which makes global regulation possible, clears the way for the right balance to be struck between all parties and interests, with the focus on the patient, and guarantees access to medicines. It is crucial that all citizens of the Union have access to high-quality healthcare and medicines and that difficulties within the internal market are brought to an end. Thus, in my capacity as IMCO rapporteur, I strongly support this proposal.