Such national and regional contracts are not reconcilable with European competition Act. If this judgement is confirmed in court, the foundation of a vital element of the health policy will be undermined. The impact of the national Member States and of the European Union should be defined more clearly. Both fundamental and practical arguments can be brought forward for maintaining national health care systems for the short and medium term. Those arguments lie in the embedment of the health care systems in the various national cultures, the regional scope of the health care system, the continuity of policy and administration and the necessity to make sure the costs of the health care system are in step with the economic possibilities, which are different for each Member State.
European law puts pressure on the national system, but there are also other factors.
With respect to Europe it would be a sensible strategy to aim at influencing policy and legislation. Discussion about the future of the insurance system that must lead to decisions before the next term of government. A thorough inquiry into the sustainability of the existing organisation for supply regulation. Experiences in the Euregions will be used to steer cross-border health care in the right direction and to include it in regular health care organisations. The Netherlands will take the lead when it comes to reaching an agreement in the Council of Ministers on positive interpretation of the principle of subsidiarity.