With the changing times, the use and requirement of medical device consultants have been increasing. It has turned to be a key element in guaranteeing the safety of medical devices. This is in play only in the German medical device law for now.
These consultants, when it comes to medical devices, are most likely to offer skilled technicians with technical knowledge or teach them on how to handle medical equipment with a professional view.
MDC’S working field:
Medical device consultants are found working in the field as application consultants and are also known as application engineers. For example, the medical device consultants show a dialysis machine for the required treatment and then information about cleaning the machine after use. Their presence in the operating theatre is considered essential as they instruct surgeons on using different machines like heart-lung machines and implantation of hip joints etc.
Few office tasks are a part of the role of the MDC, such as: When a customer calls regarding the usage of a device and whether it's suitable for any specific indication.
Functions of MDCs:
- The main function of medical device consultants is to instruct and inform the users about the medical devices. They are also responsible for making the manufacturers know about any problems or risks, including side effects if any of the devices.
- The requirement of a medical device consultant is often decided by the manufacturers. Though there are few exceptions as well for which the instruction is mandatory. There are few critical medical devices such as MRI devices and defibrillators, perfusions that have compulsions to have instructions and an instructor.
- One of the most essential responsibilities of a medical device consultant is to compile written reports from specialists on malfunctions, technical faults, and other hazards, and to communicate these information to the parties that are affected as soon as possible. The medical device consultants serve as the manufacturer's post-market surveillance mechanism, which is why they are so important.
Training of MDCS:
The instructions are generally accompanied by training. Such training addresses the following topics like medical foundations, therapeutic possibilities, device type and specific devices. The medical device consultants themselves must be trained for the devices they will instruct about.
Conclusion:
Even though the concept of medical device consultants has not come into existence everywhere, the requirements are found in many other countries as well. This post can prevent many risks and issues regarding the devices. The coming future might make this service come into the role in the medical field.
