Dr. Ravish Patwardhan: Device World

Novel devices have the potential to make life-saving or life-improving changes.  Dr. Ravish Patwardhan has discussed the tedious process of introduction of novel devices to market, with numerous involved personnel in companies.  While company CEOs have related the business aspects, Dr. Ravish Patwardhan has noted the different challenging perspective of scientists to achieve efficacy and minimize side effects.  Regulatory approval, according to FDA and other regulatory mechanisms, may need to be met.

In evaluating new devices, Dr. Ravish Patwardhan recommends the following questions:

1. What are its indications?
2. What is the efficacy?
3. What are the side effects?
4. Is it cost-prohibitive (to make and to sell)?
5. Is there a better alternative?
6. Is it truly the best option for the patient involved?
   (i.e. would you take it as the best option for yourself or a family member, if you suffered for the problem that the device claimed to help with?)

Healthcare devices, as compared to drugs, have been touted as having a higher success rate from initial inception.  However, as for drugs, the above key questions should be answered.