The current Regulatory scenario for medical devices in the United Kingdom (UK) is governed by the Medical Devices Regulations 2002 (SI 2002 No. 618, as amended), also known as the UK MDR 2002. This framework was originally based on the European Union (EU) Directives, but following the UK’s exit from the EU, there have been changes to how medical devices are regulated in Great Britain (GB), comprising England, Wales, and Scotland.
Here are the key points with respect to the current Regulatory scenario for medical devices in the UK:

Post the Brexit scenario, the Regulatory landscape for medical devices in the United Kingdom (UK) underwent a profound metamorphosis, significantly impacting manufacturers aiming to introduce their products. As the UK made an exit from the European Union (EU), there was a shift from Conformité Européenne (CE) marking to UK Conformity Assessed (UKCA) marking. However, presently, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) still allows the placing of CE-marked devices on the UK market.

The European medical devices market, being the second largest in the world, is majorly driven by a growing patient population, technological advancements, and increasing healthcare expenditure. However, when it comes to expanding the medical device business into the European geography, a complex web of regulations and recent geopolitical changes adds an extra layer of challenge.

It is well known that from January 1, 2021, medical devices to be placed on the UK market are obliged to follow a new Regulatory regime. Currently, the UK market is a witness to many Regulatory changes, with the impact of Brexit. The UK’s existing Regulatory Authority, the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), has taken over the European Union (EU) responsibilities, ultimately changing the UK regulations.