Study to examine case for use of real-world health data

Data offer promise for patients and policymakers, research organisation says

The European Commission has contracted the Lithuania-based research and policy analysis centre PPMI and Maastricht University in the Netherlands to carry out a one-year study on the use of real-world data in health research, treatment regulation, clinical care and policymaking.

Use of real-world data is a “highly promising and developing area”, albeit one which “requires a coordinated effort”, shared resources and greater investment, PPMI said in an announcement on 9 January. The study will draw together existing analyses of initiatives on the use of real-world data, and conduct interviews and workshops with relevant people, the centre said.