September 24, 2013 Print press release (PDF)

HIDA Applauds FDA Release of UDI Final Rule

Alexandria, Va. – The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) released its final rule establishing a Unique Device Identification (UDI) system for medical devices. The system is poised to support supply chain integrity and patient safety by consistently identifying medical devices.

“On behalf of medical-surgical products distributors, HIDA applauds the FDA’s thoughtful approach toward implementing a UDI system,” said HIDA President & CEO Matthew J. Rowan. “We value the agency’s sensitivity toward this important patient safety issue.

HIDA appreciates the FDA’s focus on devices within convenience kits, removing possible burdens to the healthcare supply chain. Exempting these items from requiring a separate UDI so long as the kit bears a UDI preserves distributors’ ability to effectively manage inventory and deliver devices to both patients and providers.”

MEDIA CONTACT:
Jeff Girardi, 703-838-6110
girardi@hida.org

About HIDA
The Health Industry Distributors Association (HIDA) is the premier trade association representing medical products distribution. HIDA members primarily serve the nation’s hospital, long term care, and physician/alternate care markets. For more information, visit www.HIDA.org. For more information on HIDA’s Streamlining Healthcare initiative, visit www.streamlininghealthcare.org.