Medical Device Manufacturers Oppose Device Registry

Medical device manufacturers have signaled their opposition to the creation of a national medical device registry, at least as proposed in legislation introduced on July 14. The registration requirement is found amoung the proposals outlined in America’s Affordable Health Choices Act of 2009 (H.R. 3200), introduced by Rep. John Dingell, D-Mich., and the chairmen of three House committees with jurisdiction over health policy.
Registry adovcates have noted that creation of such a database would help the Department of Health and Human Services track the safety and effectiveness of medical devices. The registry would classify by type, model, and serial number.
Opponents of the registry have questioned the utility of such a registry asking how it would help the ordinary consumer.
If that’s the opposition argument, it’s a weak one. Such a registry has worked in other countries. It would impact the public’s knowledge of safety data concerning a particular medical device. Such a registry would aid in making the industry more transparent and consumer friendly.
The real question-why does the medical device industry oppose the legislation? Why are they fearful?