Workshop on the Revision of EU Medical Devices Directive

On 27 January, the MedTech industry association Eucomed and EPF held together an interactive workshop to have an open exchange of views on the EU Medical Devices Directive. The aim was to come to a common understanding on the position of both patient groups and the medical devices industry, and an assessment of possible common concerns moving forward.

The participants including 5 company  representatives and 5 patients’ representatives shared their view on topics they defined as crucial within this revision process: the involvement of patients in the Regulation, re-use of single use devices, requirements for clinical evidence, provisions on transparency towards the public and information to patients, and the phasing out of hazardous substance in medical devices.

Participants also debated over the scrutiny mechanism and pre-market approval proposals for the authorisation of high risks medical devices that have been at the heart of the discussion in the European Parliament.

The discussion led to a better understanding of the respective positions of both parties, and helped define areas where we can continue and deepen the dialogue, and areas where clarifications are needed. Participants also discussed actions patients and industry could take in order to provide useful feedback to the Council that is currently discussing the Regulation.

For more information, please contact EPF Policy Officer Laurène Souchet at laurene.souchet@eu-patient.eu or EPF Director, Nicola Bedlington at nicola.bedlington@eu-patient.eu.