WHO's Upcoming Forum to Shape Future of Medical Devices
Geneva, Monday, 26 May 2025.
In June 2025, the WHO will host its fifth Global Forum on Medical Devices in Geneva, addressing essential global health priorities, including innovative approaches for medical device integration.
Fostering Global Health Innovation
The upcoming WHO Global Forum on Medical Devices promises to be a crucial platform for international discourse about integrating medical devices into healthcare systems. Expected attendees include policymakers, health professionals, and industry leaders from various sectors aiming to address systemic barriers and strategic priorities. This forum, set to take place virtually from Geneva, emphasizes the need to enhance access to essential medical devices under the Universal Health Coverage framework [1].
Key Themes: Access and Regulation
Central themes include the prioritization of medical devices, development of information systems for improved management, and innovation in in vitro diagnostics. Additionally, the forum will delve into regulatory frameworks and health technology assessments crucial for ensuring safety and efficacy in device deployment [1]. Such discussions are vital for fostering local production initiatives that align with WHO’s goals of achieving worldwide health equity and security [3].
Aligning with Global Health Agendas
In tandem with the WHO forum, the recent World Local Production Forum emphasized the integration of local production into global health agendas, highlighting digital transformation and partnerships in public-health financing. Such alignments not only prepare the groundwork for sustainable practices but also ensure the resilience of health systems against future challenges [3].
The Impact on Future Healthcare Systems
Long-term, the insights and recommendations from these forums could transform healthcare delivery by promoting technological advancements and regulatory improvements. By facilitating cross-sector collaboration, WHO aims to inspire innovative solutions that extend beyond mere technological updates to encompass holistic changes in health infrastructure [1][3]. This approach is projected to drive significant improvements in healthcare accessibility and quality worldwide.