Devices Expert Advisory Committee
The Devices Expert Advisory Committee (DEAC) replaces the Committee on Safety of Devices and is responsible for providing independent, external expert input and advice on a wide range of aspects relating to medical devices to help the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) in the execution of its role in ensuring the safe introduction and management of medical devices.
DEAC was formed following an independent review on Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency’s (MHRA) access to clinical advice and engagement with the clinical community. The committee is chaired by Dr Peter Groves. DEAC will also support MHRA in developing and maintaining collaborative relationships with clinical professional bodies.
Terms of reference
The Devices Expert Advisory Committee (DEAC) is responsible for providing MHRA with independent, external, expert clinical and scientific input and advice on a wide range of aspects relating to the introduction and safe use of medical devices.
The role of DEAC is to provide advice to MHRA on the following ‘core’ areas:
1. Strategic
- Clinical and scientific aspects of medical device safety, usage or introduction with particular reference to areas that represent the highest health risks.
- Device regulatory issues in the context of wider policies across the UK or International healthcare sectors.
- The development of device-related policies with particular reference to ‘real world’ clinical practice.
- The preparation of papers and position statements illustrating and reflecting the work and achievements of the Devices Division.
2. Communication
- The most effective format, content and distribution channels for targeted medical device-related communications between MHRA and the healthcare community and public.
3. Professional Networking
- Connections and collaborations with professional bodies and their safety committees.
- Emerging issues and ‘horizon scanning’ for topics that might influence operational activity and MHRA policy. Developing and maintaining a register of experts (professional, patient and public).
4. Quality Assurance
- Internal audit support.
- Training support, for example CPD opportunities for staff in the Devices division.
- Oversight of more specialist Expert Advisory Groups.
5. Professional advice
- ‘Ad hoc’ support for the MHRA devices division in undertaking its operational activity.
- Resolution of matters of dispute.
6. e-Health
- Regulatory issues relating to clinical software and e-Health.
The agenda of DEAC meetings will be structured on the basis of these ‘core’ activities.
The committee will review their performance against these ‘core’ activities on an annual basis.
Minutes