19 February 2025

The Global Medical Device Nomenclature (GMDN) Agency has announced a groundbreaking moment in the journey towards global standardisation of medical device nomenclature.

At the International Healthcare Technology Management Conference, held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, the Arabic version of the GMDN Agency’s Medical Device Nomenclature was officially launched. This monumental step makes the global medical device nomenclature accessible in Arabic, marking a historic contribution by Saudi Arabia to the global healthcare technology sector.

The launch ceremony was led by Deniz Bruce, CEO of the GMDN Agency, and Ing. Omar Alsohime, ASMEC Chairman of the Medical Electrical Equipment Maintenance Professionals Association (MEEMPA) which has worked in partnership on the translation project and was funded by the Literature, Publishing, and Translation Commission of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Deniz Bruce, CEO of the GMDN Agency, said: “This a significant milestone in the journey towards global standardisation of medical device nomenclature. It is with great pride that we recognise Saudi Arabia as the first country to adopt this groundbreaking project in collaboration with the GMDN Agency. Our partnership with MEEMPA marks a pivotal moment in our mission to enhance healthcare communication and patient safety worldwide.

“The importance of standardising medical device nomenclature cannot be overstated. In a world where healthcare systems are increasingly interconnected, having a unified language is crucial for ensuring accurate diagnosis, treatment, and patient care. The inclusion of the Arabic language in the global system is a testament to the GMDN Agency’s commitment to inclusivity and accessibility. Arabic, spoken by millions across the globe, plays a vital role in bridging communication gaps and fostering a more cohesive healthcare environment.

“This initiative not only benefits Saudi Arabia but also presents a tremendous opportunity for other Arabic-speaking countries to join this movement. By adopting a standardised medical device nomenclature, we can collectively improve healthcare outcomes, streamline processes, enhance collaboration across borders, and support interoperability.”

In line with the commitment to accessibility, healthcare providers and national regulators in the region will have free access to the GMDN platform. This will empower healthcare professionals with the tools they need to deliver the highest quality of care. To apply for access, healthcare providers and regulators can visit the GMDN Agency’s website and complete a simple registration process. The GMDN team is ready to assist and ensure a smooth onboarding experience.

“The GMDN Agency also recognises the tremendous success of the International Healthcare Technology Management Conference, organised by MEEMPA. This event had a significant international impact, bringing together over 800 professionals, including biomedical engineers, healthcare technology experts, industry leaders, and students from across Saudi Arabia and beyond,” added Deniz.