Even though certain medical gadgets, like heart rate monitors, are quite complicated, even relatively straightforward tools like stethoscopes have to pass a battery of rigorous tests. ISO 13485 applies equally well to the development of both basic and advanced medical devices.
ISO 13485 is widely accepted as the gold standard for QMS in the healthcare sector. The first version was published by ISO in 1996, and the most recent one went into effect in 2016.
This article will discuss the background of the ISO 13485 standard, its goals, its standards, and the advantages it offers to businesses and the medical field as a whole.
ISO 13485 is an individual standard within the ISO 9000 Quality Management System series that applies specifically to the medical device industry.
Medical device manufacturers can benefit from an ISO 13485 certification by using it to map out a quality management system (QMS) that improves and sustains product quality.
It makes certain that only effective medical gadgets are created, distributed, used, and eventually disposed of.
When it comes to directives, laws, protocols, and duties associated with medical devices, the ISO 13485 standard also provides a defined structure and realistic foundation for adherence.
If you adhere to the standard, you may be assured that your medical gadget will be as safe and high-quality as it was promised to be by the manufacturer.
No spite of their size or location, every manufacturer of medical devices can apply for and receive the internationally recognized ISO 13485 certification. Companies from over 21 different countries are now implementing ISO 13485.
First issued in 1996, ISO 13485 is based on the earlier ISO 9001 standard, just like the AS9100 standard for the aerospace sector and the IATF 16949 standard for the automobile industry.
Quality management systems are being developed to assist medical device makers in establishing and maintaining all processes within their facilities.
Because of this, manufacturers may guarantee uniformity across all stages of the medical device manufacturing and distribution process, not just during the design and development phases.
ISO 13485, albeit it stands on its own, is essentially ISO 9001 with some amendments addressing issues unique to the medical business.
The primary distinction between ISO 9001 and ISO 13485 is that the latter is focused on specific compliance with regulations pertaining to medical device production, while the former is meant for more universal process improvement.
This is why ISO 13485 is more stringent and calls for a more developed and documented quality management system.
The healthcare sector is highly sensitive. The manufacturing of medical equipment is subject to a unique set of laws, standards, regulations, and certifications. All of this is done to ensure quality, safety, and, most critically, legal compliance.
Detailed guidelines for producers of medical equipment are not provided under the ISO 13485 standard. Nonetheless, the certification ensures consumers that medical gadgets are consistently high quality throughout the whole production process.
There are numerous advantages to adopting ISO 13485 for your company. Adapting your QMS to ISO 13485 standards will require extra work up front, but in the long run, you’ll enjoy increased efficiency, increased sales, and happier customers.
Taking Use of ISO 13485:2016’s Quality Management System Advantages for Medical Devices
Incorporating ISO 13485 into your medical device manufacturing organization will bring about the following advantages:
In terms of quality control for medical equipment, the ISO 13485 certification is the gold standard.
Customers may rest assured that they are receiving a product or service of high quality because of this certification, which also lets them know that the company has established such a standard.
In addition to being a necessary component for medical device manufacturers to demonstrate compliance, ISO 13485 implementation in any organization can serve as a potent marketing tool.
The ISO 13485 accreditation will help the business maintain its quality standards. Data is continuously reported to management. Decisions based on these facts and data may be more in line with the company’s long-term aims.
Action will be done if management notices a lack of progress towards the targets.
The ISO quality management systems are founded on the notion of constant improvement. Using a quality management system (QMS) causes a shift in perspective amongst an organization’s leadership and workforce.
High performance, strategic leadership, and employee engagement can all result from the establishment of methodical processes that eliminate difficulties and lighten the load of work. As a result, it’s possible to provide superior goods and services.
Employee participation in ISO 13485 implementation is facilitated by thorough documentation and process control. Workers are overjoyed when given the opportunity to contribute to the company’s success by looking out ways to improve existing procedures.
When workers have a clearer idea of what they’re supposed to be doing, they’re more likely to put in the effort. As a result, productivity and efficiency in the workplace improve.
Making sure customers are happy is a top priority in any ISO 13485 implementation. Customers put more faith in businesses that have ISO 13485 certification than in those that don’t. Because consumers have faith that the business maintains an effective quality management system.
