MedTech Europe Calls for Immediate Actions Regarding Semiconductor Shortage

European trade association MedTech Europe has put out a global call for action to address the semiconductor shortage that is seriously impacting the production of medical devices in vitro diagnostic (IVD) tools.

Among other steps, the trade group has called for regulatory flexibility to allow the use of varying semiconductor types for compliance with the EU’s medical device and IVD regulations.

“Ramping up medical technology supply to meet demand is essential if healthcare systems are to clear the significant COVID-19 related patient backlogs that still persist in many [EU member states],” the association said.

Some significant steps are already under way to improve the supply of semiconductor chips. U.S. lawmakers passed legislation last week that allocates $52 billion over 5 years to boost domestic manufacturing of semiconductors. They also earmarked $500 million for “coordinating with foreign government partners to support international information and communications technology security and semiconductor supply-chain activities.”