Is the EU on track for digital public health? A checklist for assessing the national preparedness

Abstract To ensure that European Union (EU) health-related regulations achieve their intended impact across member states, national systems must be equipped with robust technical infrastructure, coherent regulatory frameworks, and sustainable investment strategies. However, varying levels of digital readiness pose significant challenges to uniform implementation. In response, we developed a maturity checklist designed to support systematic assessments of national preparedness for enacting major EU digital health regulations. The checklist and its impact on EU member states will be highlighted in this presentation. Our tool provides a structured approach for evaluating alignment with the requirements of the General Data Protection Regulation, the Cybersecurity Act, the Data Act, the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Act, and the European Health Data Space Regulation. While assuming a baseline level of infrastructural functionality (e.g., access to electricity and internet), the checklist outlines 16 critical readiness criteria essential for compliant, effective, and equitable national implementation. These criteria are organized across five key domains: cybersecurity and data protection; digital competencies within the public health workforce; technical infrastructure and system interoperability; cross-border data exchange; and strategic planning for health system digitalization. Underpinning all domains is the central role of trust (in technology and governance) among the public and health professionals, which is indispensable to advancing digital public health and AI adoption. This checklist is not merely a compliance tool but a catalyst for capacity-building and policy innovation. By applying it, member states can map strengths, uncover gaps, and chart actionable pathways toward resilient, future-ready digital health systems. It is a practical step toward harmonizing digital transformation across the EU while fostering equity, accountability, and trust.