ENSURING PATIENT SAFETY: A COMPREHENSIVE OVERVIEW OF MATERIOVIGILANCE IN INDIA

The Materiovigilance Programme of India (MvPI), a pivotal initiative for the assurance of medical device quality and safety in India, was inaugurated on July 6, 2015. The primary objective of this programme is the collection and analysis of data pertaining to adverse events associated with medical devices. This data serves as a foundation for evidence-based regulatory decisions and recommendations, thereby promoting the safe utilization of medical devices. The Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) coordinates the MvPI, with the support of the Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute of Medical Sciences & Technology (SCTIMST) and the National Health System Resource Centre (NHSRC). The programme advocates for the reporting and evaluation of adverse events as a means to enhance patient safety. Despite its significance, a considerable number of health facilities remain uninformed about the MvPI and its reporting mechanism. This highlights an urgent need for increased awareness and development to address public health concerns related to medical devices. Materiovigilance Programme of India (MvPI) serves as an essential mechanism in the protection of public health in India, by ensuring that the advantages conferred by medical devices surpass their potential detriments.