Health and Life Sciences

1. Regional regulatory shifts
As medical devices become increasingly complex and interconnected, regulatory bodies are updating their regulations to better protect public health. These changes are occurring at varying rates across regions, making it crucial for manufacturers to stay informed and proactively maintain compliance with local regulations.

2. Regulatory harmonization
To streamline market access, some countries are entering mutual agreements to align certification requirements. These efforts reduce duplicated efforts by allowing manufacturers to complete one regulatory process to access multiple markets. The Medical Device Single Audit Program (MDSAP) and the collaboration between China's National Products Administration (NMPA) and Malaysia’s Medical Device Authority (MDA) are key examples.

3. Increased focus on post-market surveillance
Regulators are placing greater emphasis on post-market surveillance (PMS), requiring manufacturers to strengthen processes for monitoring safety and performance after products are launched. While expectations still vary by region, efforts toward global harmonization are underway and expected to expand in the coming years.

The transition from the EU’s former Medical Devices Directives (MDD) to the current MDR has introduced new requirements that have changed how manufacturers approach commercialization strategies in Europe. The MDR places greater emphasis on clinical evidence, PMS and ongoing oversight. However, the number of notified bodies issuing CE certifications has not increased significantly. These factors have extended timelines for some manufacturers.

In contrast, U.S. regulatory pathways, such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA's) 510(k) and De Novo submission processes, remain well-established, and mechanisms like the Pre-Submission Program (Q-Sub) provide a formal channel for early engagement with regulators. In the EU, similar structured dialogue opportunities are emerging but may vary depending on the notified body.

As a result, manufacturers are taking a more strategic view when planning market entry. Each region offers opportunities and challenges, and the best starting point often depends on the type of device, available data and internal resources.

Regulatory requirements for digital health and software-based products in the U.S. depend on how the FDA classifies each product’s software functions. To help manufacturers navigate this process, the FDA offers the Digital Health (DH) Policy Navigator, an interactive tool designed to identify which laws, guidance and policies may apply.

The Navigator guides users through a series of questions to evaluate each software function individually. Based on responses, it provides one of three likely outcomes for the product:

• It is likely not a medical device
• It may be subject to enforcement discretion
• It will likely be subject to FDA regulatory oversight

If a product falls under FDA oversight, applicable regulatory controls are determined by device classification. Developers can refer to FDA resources, such as "How to Study and Market Your Device," to better understand classification pathways and premarket submission requirements, including 510(k), De Novo or Premarket Approval (PMA) routes.

Bringing SaMD or mobile apps to market in the U.S. follows the general process for medical device registration with the FDA. The steps below offer a simplified overview based on guidance available from the FDA’s Device Advice page.

1. Begin by determining the software’s intended use and its associated risk classification. Doing so helps identify which regulatory requirements apply, including quality system regulations and labeling.

2. Choose a submission pathway. Depending on the product's classification, it may require a 510(k), De Novo, or PMA submission. Each path has its own data requirements and documentation standards.

3. Prepare and send your submission documents. After submission, the FDA may request additional information or clarification. Timely and clear communication helps streamline the review process.

4. Once cleared or approved, manufacturers must register their establishment with the FDA and list their devices. Ongoing responsibilities may include adverse event reporting, updates and audits.

MedTech companies can take a structured approach to ESG by focusing on six key actions:

1. Conducting a life cycle assessment (LCA)
Start by evaluating the full environmental impact of each product, including raw materials, production, use and end-of-life. LCAs can reveal opportunities to reduce energy use, minimize waste, or redesign products for reuse, which may also lead to cost savings.

2. Adopting green procurement practices
Choose suppliers committed to ESG principles. That includes assessing supplier sustainability performance, exploring local sourcing to reduce emissions from transport and being transparent about procurement practices to avoid reputational risks.

3. Transitioning to renewable energy
Where possible, power facilities with clean energy such as solar, wind, biofuel or biogas. Emerging technologies, such as solar-integrated windows or geothermal systems, can further reduce reliance on fossil fuels and enhance long-term efficiency.

4. Improving operational energy efficiency
Conduct regular energy audits to identify inefficiencies in equipment, buildings or processes. Routine maintenance, equipment upgrades and energy-conscious design choices, like better insulation or natural lighting, can lead to significant savings.

5. Monitoring and complying with global regulations
Sustainability regulations vary across regions, from the EU’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) to the U.S. Securities Exchange Commission’s (SEC's) proposed climate disclosure rules. Staying informed helps mitigate risk and prepares your business for evolving expectations.

6. Appointing a sustainability leader
Consider designating a chief sustainability officer (CSO) or chief ESG officer (CESGO) to drive strategy and support accountability. These roles help align sustainability goals with operations and can support compliance, innovation and stakeholder engagement.

Together, these actions can form the foundation of an ESG strategy tailored to the MedTech industry, supporting environmental goals while strengthening long-term business resilience.