Scientific Panel for Health (SPH) Vision paper – invitation to consultation, additional guidance:
The invitation to the consultation on the vision paper “Better research for better health” focused on the recommendations and the way forward as described in sections 5 and 6 of the SPH Vision paper. Please find below, a list the topics and specific questions that you may wish to respond to, where applicable.

1.	Cross-border collaborations 
Existing   data suggests that cross-border collaborative research (whether across national or disciplinary boundaries) creates added value. 

Response: 

In your view, are currently available mechanisms adequate & sufficient? How do you envisage facilitating cross-border collaborations? What examples of success can you share?

2.	Multi-stakeholder research across the innovation cycle
The investment in, as well as strategic priorities for biomedical and health research, are decided in many fora along the innovation cycle. Currently, academia, SMEs, and large pharmaceutical companies often work in different stages of the research continuum. However, capabilities differ. 

Response: 

In your view, are there sufficient mechanisms for cross-fertilization, and how do you envisage facilitating multi-stakeholder research? What examples of success can you share?

3.	Alignment of the regulatory framework
Novel research paradigms as well as the potential of innovative treatment strategies and technologies need proper legal support through regulations that stimulate research, recognize the new realities, and facilitate their implementation into health programs. 

Response: 

In your view, what are the major hurdles to align the regulatory framework supporting better research? What examples can you share of changes to regulatory frameworks that have facilitated research, or how the regulatory framework can be improved?

4.	Novel and disruptive technologies
‘Big Data’ and fast innovation through smart and ‘disruptive’ technologies require new models for research and a new generation of highly qualified researchers working in multidisciplinary networks. 

Response: 

What mechanisms are needed to support research and implementation?  How can new technologies be assessed without hindering implementation? 

5.	A comprehensive policy for health research
Setting priorities requires a balance between addressing medical needs and building on opportunities, and must ensure excellence. A comprehensive research policy needs scientific leadership, continuity, and broad consultation at a scale that takes full advantage of the European research potential. 

Response: 

What mechanisms would you envisage to implement and monitor a comprehensive health research policy across Europe? 

6.	Other comments
Additional comments: 

Please send your comments to RTD-SPH@ec.europa.eu by August 1, 2016.