The evidence of the merits of personalised medicine is already ample. The potential is huge. The benefits are there for the taking for patients, citizens and society, and will bring new levels of satisfaction to professionals working in the health domain.

Why, then, is its development and exploitation so slow, particularly in Europe?

Personalised medicine is the test-case for how far health systems are capable of a rational and reasoned response to opportunity. It is also a test-case for how far the supporters of personalised medicine are able and willing to come together in a joint effort to drive the process that can induce constructive change.

In some areas, the EU has had a strongly supportive role in healthcare. The resulting coordination, to develop science, to translate innovation, to systemise marketing authorisation requirements for medicines and to facilitate quality testing and trials has shown a positive aspect of the EU, and should serve as inspiration and encouragement for more joined-up approaches to tackle new challenges.

If the will to work together on personalised medicine can be found, a new horizon for health in Europe can be reached. The journey can reach its destination by 2025. But the benefits can accrue as from today.