EU Member States play the lead role in the designation and development of European Reference Networks.
To achieve ERN status, network members applied to a Call from the European Commission. This application was assessed by an Independent Assessment Body (IAB) which completed reports on each applicant.
The Board of Member States (BoMS) then decided whether or not to approve an ERN application. The BoMS comprises nominees from all EU Member States plus Norway and plays an active role in developing the ERN strategy.
The BoMS continues to monitor ERN mem bers, assess applicants wishing to join existing networks, and approve any future networks. Countries which do not have representation in an approved ERN may participate through healthcare providers that are designated by their Member State as ‘associated’ and/or ‘collaborative’ national centres.