New directive on in vitro diagnostic medical devices comes into force
A new EU directive governing in vitro diagnostic medical devices came into force on the 7 December 1998 and Member States have one year from then to change their laws, regulations and administrative provision to comply with the legislation. Directive 98/79/EC aims to ensure that the internal market in in vitro diagnostic medical devices operates smoothly. Differences between the Member States' create barriers to trade and the harmonisation of rules prompted by the directive is expected to reduce commercial hurdles.