Medical Device Initiatives at the World Health Organization

The 5th Academia Clinical Development Seminar was held online on January 30

. We welcomed Dr. Keiko Fukuda from the World Health Organization (WHO), who delivered a lecture titled ‘Medical Device Initiatives at the World Health Organization.’

In the opening section, an overview of the WHO was presented. WHO works in the international public health field with the goal of achieving one of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): ‘Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages.

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The following were highlighted as WHO’s main areas of activity:

・Improving access to healthcare

・Preparing for and responding to health emergencies

・Promoting health and well-being

It was also shared that, although the organization underwent restructuring last year due to a significant overall budget reduction—which greatly altered the operational environment—WHO’s activities have continued with the support of partner organizations that assist its programs.

Next, Dr. Fukuda explained the activities carried out within the Medical Devices Unit to which she belongs.

Rather than completing its work independently, the Medical Devices Team operates cross-functionally, collaborating with a wide range of departments within the organization. Since medical devices are used in diagnosis, treatment, and prevention across diverse fields—such as infectious diseases, emergency care, and diagnostics—close cooperation with other departments is essential. When necessary, the team also consults with relevant experts to obtain advice and reviews.

In addition, Dr. Fukuda introduced several questions she had previously received regarding medical devices, along with her responses. This approach made the content easier for participants to understand and provided more practical insights.

After the lecture, a Q&A session was held with guest speaker Yoshiaki Yamagishi, Medical Center for Translational Research, Department of Medical Innovation, the University of Osaka Hospital. Dr. Fukuta kindly answered all questions thoroughly.

This seminar marks the final Academia Clinical Development Seminar for this fiscal year.

The schedule for next year has not yet been determined, but we will inform you once it is finalized.

We sincerely look forward to your participation.