Brussels, 21 May 2008 – Today, officials from Eucomed, the International Alliance of Patients Organizations (IAPO) as well as the European Institutions came together to debate the European Commission’s Patient Safety Consultation, which ended yesterday.
Each year three million people acquire Healthcare Associated Infections (HCAIs) in hospital with 50,000 dying. In addition, an increasingly large number of hospitals across the European Union are reusing medical devices designed for single use. Some claim that reuse reduces healthcare costs but in reality, this is a false economy.
"Patients and healthcare workers alike are under a serious, pan-European threat by HCAIs. The direct and indirect costs of HCAIs amount to €11 billion each year," said John Wilkinson, Eucomed's Chief Executive. "These costs can be reduced by using simple and innovative medical device technologies that are designed and proven to reduce HCAIs. Policy-makers in Europe should prioritise the use of modern medical technology that incorporates these design features to reduce risks for both patients and healthcare staff."
All experts at the meeting agree that there are various concrete actions the EU should take to improve the situation. These actions include providing a forum for Member States to exchange best practice, ensuring patient safety minimum standards, establish an EU data bank on patient safety and introduce research and project funding.
German MEP, Dr Thomas Ulmer said at the conference, "Patient safety is an area where the Union can undoubtedly make a difference for Member States and their citizens, as co-ordination and sharing of experience are significant factors in improving the situation. The EU should set a broad patient safety agenda and then monitor Member State progress in tackling the problems they face. For this to happen, comparable data is of course essential."
Responding to the consultation, Albert van der Zeijden from IAPO said, "Patients should be actively involved in the development of educational initiatives on patient safety so that they address patients' information needs. In addition, the European Community should work closely with the World Health Organization to support European countries so that there is sharing of expertise and resources."
Eucomed is the Voice of the medical technology industry in Europe. Eucomed represents directly and indirectly 4500 designers, manufacturers and suppliers of medical technology used in the diagnosis, prevention, treatment and amelioration of disease and disability. Small and medium sized companies make up more than 80% of this sector. The European medical technology industry invests some EUR 3.8 billion in research and development and employs near to 435,000 highly skilled workers. The mission of Eucomed is to improve patient and clinician access to modern, innovative and reliable medical technology.
Mark Grossien
Communications Director
mark.grossien(at)eucomed(dot)be
+32 (0)2.775.92.24
