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Transitioning to the EU In Vitro Diagnostic Devices Regulation


 

The application date of May 26, 2022 for the EU In Vitro Diagnostic Medical Devices Regulation (2017/746), commonly referred to as IVDR, has come and gone.  IVDR has created challenges for in vitro diagnostic (IVD) medical device firms planning to introduce or continue to market their products to the European Union.

 

IVD Device Classifications

 

One of the biggest changes from the in vitro diagnostic directives (IVDD) to IVDR is the move from list-based IVD device classifications to a rule-based IVD medical device classification. The new classification results in four new device classes: class A (lowest risk) to class D (highest risk), where class B, C, and D would require Notified Body (NB) involvement.

 

This change requires a large number of NBs, and the increased workload is cause for concern. Moreover, it is estimated that the quantity of medical device products will increase from 20% under the Medical Devices Directive (MDD) to approximately 80% under IVDR. As of this writing, there are only four IVDR designated NBs, which highlights the shortage.

 

IVD Scheduling Delays

 

Proactive strategic planning and effective resource allocation are critical for the timely execution and implementation of a comprehensive IVDR implementation plan. IVDR manufacturers must consider and prepare for potential delays. Scheduling bottlenecks for NB conformity assessment activities can impact planned commercialization efforts for existing and/or new IVDR products. It is necessary for IVDR manufacturers to establish contingency plans to mitigate these potential challenges.

 

regulatory compliance

Additional nuances from IVDD to IVDR are based on a medical device life cycle approach and include:

 

  • Requirements for medical device manufacturers to establish and demonstrate effective quality management systems (QMS).
  • More stringent requirements for clinical evidence demonstrating conformity.
  • New requirements for postmarket performance monitoring and reporting.
  • Greater supply chain oversight and device traceability, including giving NBs discretionary authority to monitor supplier audits and subcontractor compliance.

 

IVD Timing

 

The move from IVDD to IVDR can be a time-consuming process, and many medical device companies are still in the process of making the transition.

 

Timing is an issue because companies need to:

 

  • Evaluate if their current NB is still the right partner to work with.
  • Plan the regulatory strategy of the current medical device in the field.
  • Know the IVDD certificate expiration date and prioritize the products that need immediate attention.
  • Classify devices according to the new IVDR classification rules.

 

No matter the size of your company, if you have not already started your transition, you will need to start preparing for the IVDR deadline now as it is quickly approaching. Timely compliance to IVDR requires a dedicated team of subject matter experts.

 

For example, the goal is to properly implement and execute the deliverables as laid out in your IVDR implementation plan. These deliverables may require extensive updates to a manufacturer’s existing QMS and technical documentation. Likewise, establishing or enhancing a manufacturer’s body of objective evidence of clinical performance is validation for the product lifecycle.

 

Having the Proper Team of IVD Experts

 

Organizations have a better chance of a successful transition by having a team of subject matter experts with intimate familiarity of the implementation of IVDR.

 

The subject matter experts should identify the intended purpose and inherent risks associated with your device(s). This will determine the device classification and help create technical documentation in compliance with IVDR.

 

Robust procedures for postmarket surveillance and postmarket performance follow-up must be put in place to successfully transition to IVDR.

 

Conclusion

 

If you are planning to introduce or continue to market your IVD products to any of the EU member states you must identify the new classifications your devices fall under. This includes anticipating potential scheduling delays caused by the limited number of NBs capable of reviewing IVD device classifications. Above all, plan carefully for the entire process. Putting together the right team to handle the work can ease the transition.

 

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