EU Medical Device Classification Objectives

By Beryl Dalton


A medical device is any equipment or apparatus which function is to prevent or treat illnesses. Some examples include computers that aid in transplant or implant processes, testing, or anything related to medicine. It may also include simple apparatus like surgical gloves, thermometers, or tongue depressors.

Biomedical advancements are responsible in making these equipment, designed and produced by biomedical engineers. With the use of CAD, the production process can be a lot faster even if it is long and detailed. The European legislators made the EU medical device classification to ensure safety of the use of devices to humans.

The software systems that assist in delicate procedures need to be assessed in order to make sure there are no errors that may interfere in clinical processes. These are part of the lifelines of the patients which can become instruments to their recovery. There are objectives to the EU classification.

There are certain standards set to make the appropriate classification. There will be reports made for strict vigilance and reference. It is critical to make sure that malpractices be prevented since some of it may be prompted by wrong use, classification, as well as errors on the technical aspects of health care equipment. Hence, the main aim of the EU is to provide the general public with the safest procedures using apparatus and machines for disease prevention, detection, and treatment.

In the nineties, they introduced the Medical Device Directives, which is a set of rules that govern the use of apparatus and materials for treatment. The directives control manufactured equipment and decide whether they are used for prevention, diagnosis, or treatment of diseases. They also cover the use of contraceptive materials. Health organizations as well as manufacturers of biomedical advancements are required by law to follow the directives.

The directives are classified into three. One is focused on those used in implant procedures, the other one for simple devices, and the last one for those used in vitro diagnosis. These classifications will ensure palliative care and safety for human health. In addition, the directives will help in regulating equipment or materials that are manufactured for the intention of control, prevention, and treatment of diagnosed conditions, diseases, or illnesses.

There is an appointed and authorized member of the state assigned to monitor and regulate the equipment and devices. He will be the one who will issue requirements and permits before clinical materials are put to use. He refers to the directives and ensure the application of the state law.

The European government ensures that there are no clinical malpractices associated to the use of devices. There are possible hazards to human body if these are not regulated properly. Defective materials may be dangerous not only to the patient but also to the practitioner. Clinical policies need to be followed strictly.

The classification of devices can be done wrongly as well, leading to improper use. However, EU makes it a point that these materials are classified accordingly because they adhere to the main objective they have set which is to provide the best and safest services to the public.




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