To eQMS or Not: The Enduring Value of a Traditional QMS in a Digital Age
In today’s fast-paced, digital-first world, the allure of electronic Quality Management Systems (eQMS) is undeniable. Streamlined workflows, instant data access, and automated reporting – it all sounds incredibly efficient. But amidst the digital buzz, there’s still a place for the stalwart, traditional paper-based QMS. While often perceived as outdated, a paper system can offer unique […]
Rethinking eQMS: When a Traditional QMS Might be Right
An eQMS system, or electronic Quality Management System, is a software solution designed to automate and streamline quality management processes within an organization. It replaces traditional paper-based systems with a digital centralized platform for managing documents, workflows, and quality-related activities. While eQMS systems offer automation and streamlined workflows, they aren’t always the best fit for […]
FDA’s Quality Management Maturity Program
In an era where medical devices and pharmaceuticals are becoming increasingly complex, ensuring their safety and efficacy is paramount. The FDA’s Quality Management Maturity (QMM) Program represents a significant step forward in achieving this goal. By focusing on the quality management systems of manufacturers, the QMM Program aims to enhance the overall safety and effectiveness […]
FDA Announces the Issuance of Final Rule Amending the Quality System Regulation
Today, the resounding echo of the starting gun reverberates globally, signaling the commencement of a pivotal two-year transition period for device manufacturers and importers. This period marks the urgent need for them to adapt and enhance their quality management systems in alignment with the requirements of the Quality Management System Regulation (QMSR). The long-awaited final rule, issued by the FDA, has been a focal point of anticipation within the medical industry. The call for harmonization between ISO 13485 and the Quality System Regulations (QSRs) has persisted for decades, gaining heightened significance since its formal announcement in 2018 and the subsequent release of the proposed rule in February 2022.
CANADA’S DEVELOPING ROLE IN THE MEDICAL DEVICE REGULATORY ARENA
Canada may not be one of the larger medical device markets on the global scene, but its regulatory structure is quite substantial. Its medical industry, consisting of mainly small to medium-sized organizations, is rooted in a solid regulatory foundation that has matured over time. While their first medical device structure was implemented under Canada’s Food and Drugs […]
EXCEL SPREADSHEET REQUIREMENTS AND VALIDATION PROCESS
Under 21 CFR 11.10 Controls for closed systems, all spreadsheets that are used to facilitate the product and/or quality system decision-making processes need to be within compliance, including requirements for validation, accurate copies and protection of records, limited system access to authorized individuals, audit trails, authority, operational and device checks, training, electronic signatures, and change […]
FDA ISSUES GUIDANCE CONTENT OF PREMARKET SUBMISSIONS FOR DEVICE SOFTWARE FUNCTIONS
The FDA released new guidance for the Content of Premarket Submissions for Device Software Functions [1] in June 2023. This guidance replaces the preexisting guidance from May of 2005. Since then, technological advances have caused software to become an important part of medical devices. The final guidance moved to a simplified risk-based approach to determine […]
GUIDANCE ON SIGNIFICANT CHANGES REGARDING THE TRANSITIONAL PROVISION UNDER ARTICLE 120 OF THE MDR
The European Commission published an updated Medical Device Coordination Group (MDCG) 2020-3 Rev.1 – Guidance on significant changes regarding the transitional provision under Article 120 of the MDR in May 2023. Changes were made throughout the guidance document to align it with Regulation (EU) 2023/607 (updates to MDR/IVDR transitional provisions) and with the similar guidance document for […]
