Medical device reforms: Medical Devices Consumer Working Group

Project overview

The Medical Devices Consumer Working Group (MDCWG) was established in 2019. 

It followed the release of TGA’s Action Plan for Medical Devices and a consumer workshop, attended by over 40 consumer groups.

Consumers, including: 

• Arthritis Australia,
• CHOICE,
• Consumers Health Forum of Australia and
• Painaustralia

identified priority areas and topics for us to focus on.

There was a refresh of the MDCWG membership in 2021 which expanded membership from ten to 21 consumer organisations. 

The MDCWG supports the TGA’s medical device reform activities and resources, resulting from the reforms. 

The MDCWG provides advice on improvements to communications and information provided to patients about the devices they use. 

The MDCWG have been involved in:

• strengthening consumer awareness, understanding and outreach of the patient information materials
• the five questions to ask your health professional before you get a medical implant. Available in 10 languages
• consumer-facing fact sheets and guidance, for example:
  • General requirements for advertising personalised medical devices to consumers,
  • COVID-19 material (rapid antigen tests, face masks, ventilators), and patient information materials
• improving consumer awareness and ability to report a medical device related adverse event
• TGA’s communications and information to consumers.

The MDCWG's forward work plan outlines its focus for 2023-2024.