Medical Technology Makes Its Way to Congressional Hearings
In the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare, the Medtech Association has been a steadfast advocate for the advancement of medical technology.
On August 20, 2025, the Medtech Association, in collaboration with 67 stakeholder groups, urged the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to establish a timely, streamlined pathway for Medicare patients to access FDA-authorized breakthrough medical technology. This call to action was a testament to the potential of these innovative solutions to revolutionize patient care and improve health outcomes.
The push for Medicare coverage for breakthrough medtech was echoed by patient groups and state medtech associations. The importance of making these life-changing technologies accessible to all was underscored, with the hope that it would lead to improved patient care and better health outcomes.
On July 30, 2025, the Medtech Association welcomed the White House, CMS, and HHS's voluntary pledge to make patient data more accessible and delivered faster between patients and providers. This initiative was a significant step towards empowering patients and enabling them to take a more active role in their healthcare.
The Medtech Association's advocacy efforts were not limited to policy changes. In July 30, 2025, Scott Whitaker, the president and CEO of the Medtech Association, published an op-ed in The Washington Times, emphasizing the vital role of medtech in the Trump administration's "Make America Healthy Again" initiative.
Scott Whitaker also published an op-ed on August 12, 2025, explaining the potential negative impact of tariffs on U.S. medtech innovation, jobs, and patient care. The op-ed served as a reminder of the industry's significant economic contribution and its impact on the well-being of millions of Americans.
The Medtech Association's advocacy efforts extend beyond the U.S. borders. In Germany, the MedTech sector, comprising over 1,480 manufacturers with more than 20 employees, employs over 210,000 people and generates revenues exceeding 55 billion euros. Prominent companies such as Siemens Healthineers and inomed Medizintechnik GmbH are part of this thriving industry.
The Medtech Association's annual Medtech Showcase and Reception on Capitol Hill serves as a platform to inform members of Congress and their staff about medtech policies. The event aims to educate congressional staff about the importance of medtech in good health and its indispensable nature in the healthcare system.
The 2023 Medtech Showcase featured over 40 examples of medtech from 37 companies across various healthcare sectors, including small start-ups and multinational corporations. The medtech on display ranged from large diagnostic systems to small wearables monitoring blood glucose levels and sleep patterns. Examples included precision mobility measurement devices, remote patient monitoring technology, an ingestible capsule for detecting intestinal bleeding, a finger-tip-worn device for sleep data recording, surgical power tools for knee, hip, and shoulder replacement, radiation therapy equipment, an AI device for diagnosing diabetic vision loss, blood tests for diagnosing Hepatitis C and pancreatic cancer, a smart mat for testing diabetic foot problems, continuous glucose monitors, a 3D video system for surgery, and more.
The Medtech Association has also been vocal about issues affecting the industry. In response to a proposal for a cell phone ban during instructional hours in K-12 schools, the Association urged for an exception for diabetes monitoring. The Association has also published a technical performance and safety white paper titled "Medical Imaging Device Cybersecurity: Critical Outage Situations and Response."
The Story of Medtech, a feature on the Association's website, empowers patients to share their experiences with medical technology. This initiative aims to educate, inspire, and create community, providing a platform for patients to share their stories and experiences with innovative healthcare solutions.
In conclusion, the Medtech Association's advocacy efforts are centred around making medical technology more accessible, affordable, and effective for patients. Through policy changes, public education, and industry collaboration, the Association is working towards a future where medical technology plays a transformative role in healthcare.
