Chris Whitehouse, a political consultant and expert on medical technology policy and regulation at Whitehouse Communications, and advisor to MedTech suppliers, records World Health Organization recognition for UK’s medical device regulator.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has recognised the UK’s medical device regulator, the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency’s (MHRA) commitment to regulatory excellence, innovation and global collaboration, by designating it as a WHO-Listed Authority (WLA).
The designation from the United Nations’ agency for promoting global health, places MHRA alongside Health Canada and Japan’s MHLW/PMDA as newly appointed WLAs announced by the WHO, reinforcing a growing network of 39 authorities whose work underpins faster, broader access to quality-assured medical products – especially in low- and middle-income countries.
Lawrence Tallon, MHRA Chief Executive, commented: “This designation is a proud moment for the MHRA and for the UK. It reflects our unwavering commitment to regulatory excellence, innovation, and global collaboration. As a WHO-Listed Authority, we stand ready to support faster access to life-saving treatments worldwide, while continuing to uphold the highest standards of safety and efficacy.”
The WHO’s WLA framework, says the MHRA, plays a vital role in strengthening global regulatory systems, promoting convergence, and enabling reliance on trusted authorities. It supports efficient resource use and accelerates access to quality-assured products – especially in regions where regulatory capacity is still developing.
Seeking this recognition is part of the MHRA’s longstanding approach to position itself as a “World Class” regulator.
The Author used AI in preparing this article, comments upon or questions about which can be addressed to chris.whitehouse@whitehousecomms.com.
