The medical devices industry is set to benefit from a joint government-industry task force aimed at stimulating its growth and performance. The task force is to report in October 2004 and follows the same format as previous task forces for the pharmaceuticals and biotech sectors (PICTIF and BIGT). The joint chairs are Ministers Lord Warner and Lord Sainsbury, and Sir Chris O'Donnell, CEO of Smith & Nephew.
HITF is divided into four working groups, of which the subjects and co-chairs are:
1. Market Access
- to increase healthcare professionals' and patients' access to appropriate and innovative medical technology across all healthcare services Chairs: Duncan Eaton (CE, NHS Purchasing and Supply Agency) and Colin Morgan (MD, Ethicon)
2. R&D and Industrial Base
- to foster and facilitate an improved environment for product research, development, clinical evaluation and related manufacturing investment Chairs: Dr Peter Greenaway (Head, Department of Health, Science & Technology, Briefing & Communications, Research & Development) and Oliver Wells (ABHI)
3. Regulatory Issues
- to provide a clear framework of regulation and information that serves patients Chairs: Dr David Jefferys (Head of Devices, MHRA) and Chris Hodges (CMS Cameron McKenna)
4. International Trade
- to promote international trade in products in the sector. Chairs: Stuart Smalley (Head of Department of Health International) and Arthur Kay (Varian).
For further information please contact Chris Hodges at chris.hodges@cms-cmck.com
