Medical technology firms aiming to have their medical device or service approved by the NHS must take steps to safeguard their Intellectual Property Rights, a leading health firm has warned.
Greater Manchester Academic Health Science Network (GM AHSN) warned that many small firms could lose money and recognition if others take their new idea.
The organisation has now published an infographic to help med-tech SMEs make informed IP decisions.
It covers copyright, design rights, patents and trademarks. Also included is a detailed guide to Confidentiality Agreements (NDAs and CDAs), and contracts.
A GM AHSN spokesman said: ‘Each IP protection has strengths and weaknesses, as well as rules on the length of the protection applied, how it can be achieved, and how much it costs.
‘Healthcare companies will probably find that more than one of these types can be applied to their business and product developments at different stages.’
Healthcare developers based or working in Greater Manchester, East Lancashire and East Cheshire can access professional support under the Innovation Nexus initiative. Run by the GM AHSN and partners in the NHS and the private sector, the initiative provides support to deliver new products and services within the region.
For more information about protecting your intellectual property, see IP Essentials for Companies, which includes details on collaborating with the NHS with regard to IP, and links to further resources. You can also request assistance from Innovation Nexus advisors.
