Washington, D.C. – The Medical Imaging & Technology Alliance (MITA) – the leading trade association representing manufacturers of medical imaging equipment, radiopharmaceuticals, contrast media, and focused ultrasound therapeutic devices – has submitted responses to the Healthy Future Task Force Modernization and Treatments Subcommittees, following Requests for Information (RFI) to promote the availability and development of life-saving treatments, devices, and diagnostics, while also addressing rising patient costs.
“We applaud the Healthy Future Task Force for its consideration of policy changes to move our health care system forward and better serve all Americans,” said Patrick Hope, executive director of MITA. “Payment systems and market availability will play a key role in shaping investment in future medical advances, so we appreciate the opportunity to submit our responses and encourage the Task Force to shape policies in a way that encourages innovation.”
In its comments to the Modernization Subcommittee, MITA stressed the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to improve care while also warning of some current challenges to AI innovation. These included current fragmented data systems and the need for development of a reimbursement framework to recognize the costs of AI-enabled medical devices.
Responding to the Treatments Subcommittee, MITA again raised the challenges to AI innovation but also advocated for streamlining the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) coverage process to promote expedient, transparent, and predictable pathways to bring safe and effective products to patients. The letter also raised concern with packaging AI and diagnostic radiopharmaceutical payment and advocated for passage of the Facilitating Innovative Nuclear Diagnostics (FIND) Act (HR 4479/S2609).
To read MITA’s letter to the Healthy Future Task Force Modernization Subcommittee, click here.