Companies want FDA to expand the bounds of its accelerated device development program, while others urge FDA to be cautious.
As FDA moves to establish an accelerated development program for breakthrough devices, it is getting diverging input on how expansive the program should be. Industry insists that the agency is thinking too small, while others say FDA must take care to ensure the program is limited and tightly controlled.
CDRH issued a draft guidance
16 June marked the first major new regulatory instrument in the UK’s post-Brexit transition to a standalone device regulatory system for Great Britain.
With new regulations limiting the use of plastics popping up worldwide, the medtech industry sees arguments on both sides. Some argue hasty bans of PFAS ("forever chemicals") would harm patients, while others say phthalates should be phased out to protect the public.
Ahead of the 11 June UK spending review and its anticipated funding uplift for healthcare and life sciences, the MHRA announced an expansion of its digital expertise by creating a dedicated hub in Leeds, a renowned center of medtech excellence.
The EU’s Artificial Intelligence Act, which entered into force on 1 August 2024, is already facing turbulence.
After two serious injuries and one death linked to some of its ventilators, Medtronic has recalled the devices and asked customers to stop using them and find alternative means. The action comes more than a year after the company left the market.
Preparations for the reauthorization of the Medical Device User Fee Amendments for 2028-2032 are underway, with the US FDA announcing a public meeting for 4 August. After negotiations with industry and other stakeholders, a draft agreement is due to Congress by 15 January 2025.
Robert Foster, HHS deputy general counsel and chief counsel for food, research and drugs, is temporarily heading the Office of Chief Counsel, but a permanent appointee is expected after Michael Stuart's confirmation as HHS general counsel.
