title: Medical device data systems and FDA regulation. Should medical device data systems require FDA clearance?
abstract: It is widely understood why medical devices need to be regulated by the FDA and other governing bodies. However medical software does not typically require the same level of regulation. Currently the FDA is investigating whether one type of medical software, Medical Device Data Systems (MDDS), should require FDA clearance because of the potential risk they impose when interconnected with medical devices. Hospitals are looking to implement MDDS because the technology allows nursing staff to spend more time on direct patient care and reduces charting errors. This article will explore the FDA's proposal and will review the possible risks and provide a rationale for why MDDS should be regulated by the FDA and why MDDS vendors should have the right level of quality and risk management procedures in place to ensure that they are developing and bringing to market the safest products possible.
authors.forename: Peter
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Kelley
mesh_terms: D004864:Equipment and Supplies; D033161:Government Regulation; D009732:Nursing Care; D005791:Patient Care; D014481:United States; D014486:United States Food and Drug Administration