Medical device industry calls for My Health Record of medical device data

The Medical Technology Association of Australia (MTAA) today welcomed the Federal Government response to the Senate inquiry into transvaginal mesh implants.

MTAA supports exploring ways of safely recording a consumer’s medical device information and will work with the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) and the Australian Digital Health Agency (ADHA) to progress this through the MyHealth Record future work-plan.

Ian Burgess, Chief Executive Officer of the Medical Technology Association of Australia said:

“MTAA is committed to working with the Government to progress relevant recommendations."

“The medical device industry’s fundamental purpose is to provide patients better health outcomes."

“On behalf of MTAA, I acknowledge the women who shared their deeply personal stories during the Senate Committee process."

“MTAA and our members were active participants in this process having provided submissions to the inquiry and appearing before the Committee at its public hearings."

“Registries can be invaluable, but they are complex and expensive. To reduce cost and complexities, we believe the Government should prioritise consideration of the inclusion of medical device data in the My Health Record."

“The development of My Health Record will provide a tremendous opportunity to improve data collection across the whole health system and across the patient journey, not just specific to a particular silo of the health system."

“The Government response notes MTAA and member companies are bound by a Code of Practice that sets high standards for ethical interactions with healthcare providers. MTAA continues to discuss with the Department ways to harmonise an industry code of practice which all device manufacturers and suppliers are required to adhere to by law or regulation.”

Media Contact: 02 9900 0600 | media@mtaa.org.au