On 16 March, 2026, the European Commission hosted a high-level conference in Brussels titled “Medical Devices: Innovation and Patient Safety” under the auspices of the Cypriot Presidency of the Council. The event featured a keynote address by Oliver Várhelyi, EU Commissioner for Health and Animal Welfare, and brought together representatives from EU regulatory authorities, the Council, the European Parliament, and key stakeholder organisations.

The conference reviewed the latest developments in the sector and looked ahead following the Commission’s proposal of 16 December 2025 to revise legislation on medical devices and in-vitro diagnostic devices. Discussions were further explored through three breakout sessions addressing predictability in conformity assessments, balancing safety and innovation through evidence-based approaches, and translating breakthrough technologies into improved patient care.

EFNA Vice-President, Arabela Acalinei, and Programme and Engagement Manager, Iva Galovic, participated on EFNA’s behalf. A key takeaway from EFNA’s perspective is that stronger patient involvement should be essential in shaping future policy and ensuring that innovation remains aligned with patients’ needs.