Healthcare isn’t just about technology or rules, it’s about making a real difference in people’s lives.
How do we ensure innovations reach those who need them?
How do we harness tools like AI without losing sight of safety and trust?
These questions shaped the conversations at MedTech Forum 2025.
Industry leaders and experts came together to tackle practical challenges and explore how to move healthcare forward, with patients and providers at the centre.
From cutting through regulatory complexity to finding ways to work more sustainably, the forum covered the ground that matters.
Here’s a look at the key takeaways.
All about MedTech Forum 2025
MedTech Forum 2025 took place in Lisbon from May 13 to 15.
The event commenced with a welcome reception at the historic Pátio da Galé on May 13, followed by two days of sessions at the Lisbon Congress Centre.
This year’s forum centred on “Empowering a Healthier Tomorrow,” addressing pivotal topics such as digital transformation (using AI, cloud platforms, etc. to improve how healthcare is delivered), regulatory innovation, and sustainability within the MedTech sector.
If you’re working at the intersection of healthcare and technology, the MedTech Forum was where critical conversations happened.
From regulatory shifts to the real-world application of AI and digital tools, the event offered insights into how the industry is evolving, directly from those who are shaping it.
Participants left with sharper context, fresh perspectives, and a clearer sense of where the industry is headed.
Highlighted sessions in MedTech Forum 2025
Empowering European innovators with early feasibility studies
This session focused on the hurdles that still exist for early-stage testing of medical devices in Europe.
Speakers emphasised the need for more consistent regulatory pathways across countries, arguing that without coordination, Europe risks falling behind markets like the U.S. in enabling innovation.
Driving secure health data access via the IDERHA project
With healthcare data often being hard to access, the IDERHA (Integration of Heterogeneous Data and Evidence towards Regulatory and HTA Acceptance) project made a strong case for federated data models, where information stays protected but can still support clinical and regulatory work.
The discussion pointed to a future where secure, coordinated data use becomes the norm rather than the exception.
The future of business interaction in MedTech
As digital tools reshape how MedTech teams engage with healthcare providers, this session explored what’s working.
From remote interactions to data-informed outreach, the panel shared how commercial teams are rethinking their playbook in a more tech-savvy and selective market.
Aligning PLM & QMS processes for MedTech excellence
This session tackled a common pain point: disconnected systems.
By aligning Product Lifecycle Management and Quality Management processes, companies can cut down on inefficiencies, reduce regulatory risks, and create better handoffs between teams.
A few case studies showed how this alignment plays out in practice.
Key themes and objectives
How digital technology can improve healthcare:
Digital transformation isn’t new, but making it meaningful is the challenge. Sessions explored how MedTech companies are applying AI, remote monitoring tools, and connected systems in ways that support clinicians and patients.
The focus was less on flashy tech and more on what drives real outcomes.
Getting ahead of regulation:
As compliance requirements evolve across Europe, so do the headaches. A major thread this year was how to move from reactive to proactive—building regulatory strategy into product planning from day one.
There was also a push for more coordinated approaches across countries, especially around early feasibility studies.
Putting patients at the centre (for real):
Patient-centricity was more than a buzzword at this forum. Speakers shared how MedTech companies are partnering directly with patient groups—not just to tick a box, but to co-create solutions that reflect lived experience. It’s a shift from designing for patients to designing with them.
Sustainability as a strategic move:
Sustainability is no longer a side conversation. From device packaging to lifecycle emissions, companies are being pushed to think about environmental impact alongside clinical performance.
The takeaway: Sustainability isn’t just good PR—it’s increasingly tied to procurement, reputation, and long-term viability.
Notable speakers and contributors
- Rich Lesser, Global Chair, Boston Consulting Group.
- Annette Bruls, Corporate Vice-President EMEA, Edwards Lifesciences.
- Gavin Wood, Company Group Chairman, Johnson & Johnson MedTech EMEA.
- Urmi Prasad Richardson, President EMEA, Thermo Fisher Scientific.
- Roland Goette, Executive Vice President EMEA, BD.
Looking ahead
The MedTech Forum made it clear: progress in healthcare depends on more than just new technology.
It requires clearer rules, better collaboration, and genuine input from the people who use these innovations every day.
As the industry adapts to rapid change, events like this one offer a crucial space to exchange ideas and align efforts.
For anyone involved in medical technology, understanding these shifts isn’t optional—it’s essential.
-By Rohini Kundu and the AHT Team
