This section showcases some of the European Observatory's work on health care delivery. Health care delivery forms the most visible function of the health system, both to patients and the general public. But how is organized in different countries? And more importantly, what can we learn from one another?

Health care delivery forms the most visible function of the health system, both to patients and the general public. It concentrates on patient flows as well as the organization and delivery of all services dealing with the diagnosis and treatment of disease, or the promotion, maintenance and restoration of health. It covers the main areas of service provision such as public health, primary care, specialized care (often divided into secondary and tertiary care), urgent and emergency care, pharmaceutical care, rehabilitation/intermediate care, long-term care, services for informal carers, palliative care, mental health care and dental care. 

The Observatory’s engagement in this area focuses on describing, comparing and analysing the different delivery systems in use. It can build on the wealth of detailed descriptions gathered as part of the longstanding Health Systems in Transition (HiT) series and the Health Systems and Policy Monitor (HSPM). Comparing health service provision across Europe is notoriously challenging. The notions and definitions of terms used in different jurisdictions, the range of services attributed to each type of health care delivery, and whether these services take place in hospitals, in an ambulatory setting, or elsewhere, all differ substantially.

Furthermore, the need for better integration of care is an inescapable trend that will further blur the traditional boundaries of health service delivery. At the same time this could offer real opportunities to put the patient at the centre of care and provide solutions for the growing numbers of people living with multiple chronic diseases. As these and other concepts evolve, the Observatory aims to analyse the evidence and distil lessons for policy-makers seeking to improve their health care delivery systems.