Understand ERNs (European Reference Networks)

The European Reference Networks (ERNs) are cross-border networks that bring together European hospital centres of expertise and reference to tackle rare, low prevalence and complex diseases and conditions requiring highly specialised healthcare. 

ERNs enable specialists in Europe to discuss cases of patients affected by rare, low-prevalence and complex diseases, providing advice on the most appropriate diagnosis and the best treatment available. There are currently 24 ERNs across the EU and Norway.

Listen to Prof Cormac McCarthy from St. Vincent’s Hospital, Dublin, on this Youtube video

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TvpsMH630xA

You can also read about ERNs on the HSE website https://www.hse.ie/eng/services/list/5/rarediseases/ernexpertcentres/ern-for-patients-and-families/