Policy & Regulation
Approvals
Research recently published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that the FDA met its review timeline goals for the majority of breakthrough devices – but also revealed some apparent shortcomings in safety data supporting the submissions.
The FDA's new Commissioner’s National Priority Voucher program aims to expedite drug approvals significantly. Device firms like XVIVO advocate for a similar initiative for devices, emphasizing the potential for faster reviews and improved patient access to lifesaving technologies.
A recent approval from the US FDA allowing Boston Scientific to broaden its labeling for its pulse field ablation system means more patients with one type of AFib will have access to a promising new treatment.
A system of pre-regulatory review consultations for innovative drugs and devices in South Korea has contributed to the accelerated development of such products.
Compliance
The US FDA posted eight device-related warning letters in June, touching on industry sectors from urinalysis test strips to ophthalmic devices.
“RRAs are valuable oversight tools and under certain circumstances, can assist FDA in its mission to protect public health, oversee regulated industry, and help ensure regulated products comply with FDA requirements,” according to final guidance.
HHS and its agencies violated the law by swiftly implementing “sweeping and poorly thought-through directives that ordered the bulk removal of healthcare resources,” including FDA draft guidances on diversity action plans and sex differences in clinical trials, a federal court said.
Stay current on regulatory guidelines from around the world with Medtech Insight's Guidance Tracker. Over 50 documents have been posted on the tracker since its last update.
Recalls
Research recently published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that the FDA met its review timeline goals for the majority of breakthrough devices – but also revealed some apparent shortcomings in safety data supporting the submissions.
Two recent recalls from the US FDA involve three deaths linked to an issue with an Abiomed heart pump — as well as three serious injuries related to angiographic catheters from Cook Medical.
The US FDA has issued an early alert to notify consumers about serious risks associated with a recall from Medtronic and its subsidiary Given Imaging. The alert concerns delivery capsules for diagnosing GERD.
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.
Regulation
Medtech companies require expertise to navigate complex AI regulations and integrate AI in medical software while addressing regulatory challenges, claims expert AI consultant with medtech experience.
The FDA's new Commissioner’s National Priority Voucher program aims to expedite drug approvals significantly. Device firms like XVIVO advocate for a similar initiative for devices, emphasizing the potential for faster reviews and improved patient access to lifesaving technologies.
Paul Campbell, chief regulatory officer at HealthAI, emphasizes existing regulations for AI in healthcare should not be overlooked as new regulations are developed.
The last steps are taking place leading to the launch of the EU’s medical device database, EUDAMED.
Legal & IP
Former HHS-OIG attorney Rob DeConti emphasized the significance of data analytics and compliance in combating healthcare fraud, urging medical tech companies to adopt robust measures to prevent potential risks.
The DOJ has launched nearly 70 enforcement actions in 2025, targeting diagnostics, durable medical equipment, and telehealth fraud. Key cases involve significant fraudulent claims against Medicare, with individuals facing severe penalties.
Legal experts warn, however, that new Mexican procurement rules are discriminatory and could be challenged in the courts.
Innovative Healthcare is asking for a permanent injunction against Johnson & Johnson subsidiary Biosense Webster after winning a $442 million antitrust verdict. The injunction aims to prevent continued anticompetitive practices in the electrophysiology catheter market.
Legislation
Paul Campbell, chief regulatory officer at HealthAI, emphasizes existing regulations for AI in healthcare should not be overlooked as new regulations are developed.
The US FDA needs to know who wants a seat at the MDUFA negotiations table before discussions can begin. The agency is asking stakeholders to let it know if they plan to participate in the periodic consultation meetings before July 28.
The US FDA has given up on its effort to regulate lab-developed tests as medical devices, at least for now. The agency will not appeal a decision from the Eastern District of Texas that tossed out the FDA’s final rule, leaving the agency with few cards.
During MD&M East in Manhattan last week, a panel of experts discussed how the Trump administration’s trade policy is affecting manufacturing and offered some ideas on what manufacturers can do to help mitigate the chaos.