The medtech sector is defined by its strong history of research and innovation. Europe is an established leader in medtech innovation, delivering major advances in areas including cardiac pacemakers, deep brain stimulation and intravascular ultrasound. By turning scientific ideas into solutions for patients, health professionals and health systems, industry has contributed to better outcomes and greater efficiency in healthcare. In the process, Europe’s medtech companies have helped the region to be a world leader in a highly competitive sector.
EU R&I support instruments have played a key role in generating the knowledge and skills required to answer the major challenges facing society. As new challenges come into focus in healthcare, public and private investment in R&I will be essential. The EU’s Horizon Europe Framework Programme will invest €80-120 billion in R&I over the period 2021-2027. Approximately 8% of this budget should be dedicated to the health sector, covering topics ranging from basic science to market access[1].
In the past, the medtech sector did not engage with EU support instruments as actively as some other industries. That is changing. MedTech Europe is working with health stakeholders on the future EU Partnership on Health Innovation. For the first time, medical technology companies are strongly encouraged to take an active role in shaping this EU research partnership to ensure it meets their needs and expectations. Together, we will help to design cross-sectorial R&I programmes on prevention, diagnostics, treatment, monitoring of patients, as well as socio-economic studies on value and digitisation of healthcare.
[1] Exact budget will be fixed by the Multiannual Financial Framework
