WHO Launches Online Platform For Global Medical Devices Information

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has launched MeDevIS, an online platform providing global access to information on medical devices. This system supports governments, regulators, and users in selecting, procuring, and using medical devices for diagnostics, testing, and treatment of various health conditions.

MeDevIS includes 2301 types of medical devices addressing a wide range of health issues. These include reproductive, maternal, newborn, and child health; noncommunicable diseases like cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and diabetes; as well as infectious diseases such as COVID-19.

Dr Yukiko Nakatani, WHO Assistant Director-General for Access to Medicines and Health Products, stated: "The number of medical technologies used in health care is growing, as is their complexity, which can make it challenging for health care practitioners and patients to navigate. We aim to provide a one stop shop of international information, which can be invaluable for those making decisions on life-saving medical technologies, especially in resource-limited settings, and to improve access."

Globally, over 10 000 different medical devices are utilised for protection, prevention, diagnostics, treatment or rehabilitation. These range from simple items like pulse oximeters and digital thermometers to complex equipment such as electrocardiograms and radiotherapy units.

This initiative marks the first time WHO has created a global repository on medical devices. It builds upon the WHO Priority Medical Devices List (MDL) and the WHO Essential Medicines List (EML), which will celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2025. The EML is considered a cornerstone of public health worldwide.

Continuous Improvement and Expansion

WHO plans to continually enhance the MeDevIS platform by engaging with various stakeholders and partners. They aim to expand the repository with additional technologies and devices used in different health areas including pandemic and emergency settings.

This platform aims to simplify decision-making processes for healthcare practitioners by providing comprehensive information on both simple and complex medical technologies. This includes single-use syringes, medical masks, diagnostic laboratory tests, endoscopes, hemodialysis units, defibrillators, implantable prostheses, cardiac stents among others.

The introduction of MeDevIS represents a significant step towards improving access to essential medical technologies globally. By offering detailed information on a wide array of devices, it supports better healthcare outcomes across diverse settings.

With inputs from WAM