Topic: ACTION-Grid is a Specific International Cooperation Project on healthcare information systems based on Grid capabilities and Biomedical Informatics (BMI) between Latin America, the Western Balkans and the European Union (EU).Background: Members of the consortium have published pioneering scientific papers in Grid and BMI. They participated in the BIOINFOMED and SYMBIOMATICS studies that contributed decisively to the last two FPs of the EC.Main objective: ACTION-Grid will act as a multiplier of previous outcomes in Grid and BMI. ACTION-Grid will disseminate these outcomes in Latin America, the Western Balkans and North Africa.Subobjectives:(1) To survey Grid-based and BMI initiatives in Europe, Latin America, the Western Balkans and North Africa. These results will be combined with data from an inventory of Grid/Nano/BMI methods and services--, developed by the consortium.(2) Based on previous EC-based projects, ACTION-Grid will foster training and mobility in Grid and BMI.(3) To develop a White Paper, in collaboration with a panel of recognized experts. This document will be delivered to the EC to establish a future agenda covering the Grid/Nano/Bio/Medical Informatics areas and develop new plans in Latin America, the Western Balkans and North Africa.(4) To disseminate ACTION-Grid, by means of: (a) An international symposium on Grid and BMI. This conference will be carried out in Europe, with two satellite conferences (b) Scientific publications, (c) Dissemination strategies, such as a Website, Newsletters, Press releases, etc.Expected impact: To expand previous initiatives to create a common health information infrastructure in Europe, and extending it to other regions. It will enhance cooperation between research centres, universities, hospitals, SMEs, public entities, and others. ACTION-Grid will expand the impact of EC achievements in Grid and BMI to researchers, educators, and health practitioners world-wide.