Erik Paulsen: “The medical device industry is a Minnesotan and American success story. The innovation it fosters means longer lives…”

“The medical device industry is a Minnesotan and American success story. The innovation it fosters means longer lives, healthier patients, good-paying jobs, and economic growth. Just this morning, I attended a town hall meeting in Minnesota with the new head of the FDA's Center for Devices and Radiological Health, Dr. Jeffrey Shuren. Dr. Shuren and his team were in town to hear from device manufacturers, doctors and patients. I applaud his willingness and his team's willingness to listen. As the FDA looks to the future, it is critical that it strikes the right balance--protecting patients from harm while not hindering the availability of lifesaving innovations. An uncertain, unpredictable approval process for devices could absolutely reduce options for patients down the road. We need to keep the innovation here. We need to keep the jobs here. We need to keep the technology and the patient care here in the United States. That's why we need an effective process that protects patients while fostering the innovation and economic growth that this industry provides.”