Johnson & Johnson Vision supports EC survey on potential electronic Instructions for Use expansion

eIFUs are mainly utilised for implantable medical devices. Image credit: ©zimmytws – adobe.stock.com

Johnson & Johnson Vision has announced that it supports the new European Commission survey that will impact whether or not the European Commission (EC) will allow the use of electronic Instructions for Use (eIFU) for all professional use devices, which are mainly utilised for implantable medical devices. This may impact ophthalmic devices, including contact lenses, according to a statement. The survey will be open for healthcare professionals to submit their feedback until 11 October, 2024.

“This new survey launched by the European Commission allows healthcare professionals to have a voice in any potential eIFU expansion and is a positive step towards a more sustainable healthcare industry in Europe. As a leading eye health company, J&J is fully committed to supporting any measures that can reduce waste, use less resources, and help practitioners and consumers to recycle more,” says Jacqueline Henderson, President EMEA, Johnson & Johnson Vision.

The EC’s survey follows suit of trade associations Medtech Europe and Euromcontact, who also conducted surveys gathering feedback from healthcare professionals and contact lens users. The results, which were shared with EC, were overwhelmingly positive, the statement said. The EC’s goal in conducting its own survey is to validate the findings from the previous surveys, which could shape future policy decision regarding the expansion of eIFU legislation.

The EC and EU Competent Authorities also reached an agreement in February 2024 to further evaluate the possibility of expanding the scope of products that are permitted to use eIFU. If the EC were to consider expansion of this scope, legislative changes would be necessary.

Those interested in filling out the EC’s survey can find it on the commission’s website.