The third EU health programme was the main instrument used by the European Commission to implement the EU Health Strategy , which supported the Europe 2020 strategy. The programme had four main objectives:
- Promote health, prevent diseases and foster supportive environments for healthy lifestyles taking into account the 'health in all policies' principle,
- Protect Union citizens from serious cross-border health threats,
- Contribute to innovative, efficient and sustainable health systems,
- Facilitate access to better and safer healthcare for Union citizens.
The third EU health programme was managed by the Consumers, Health and Food Executive Agency (Chafea) assisting the Commission and is implemented by means of annual work plans, which set out priority areas and the criteria for funding actions under the programme. The total budget for the programme was EUR 449.4 million.
Alzheimer Europe received an Operating Grant from Third EU Health Programme, whilst the second Joint Action on Dementia was also funded through the Programme.