India’s Medical Technology Association Urges BCCI, ICC to Integrate Life-Saving Devices near Stadium

The proposed integration includes advanced medical monitoring systems, emergency response equipment, and other advanced technologies that can significantly enhance the ability to respond promptly to any health-related incidents in the crowd.

In view of the recent ICC Men’s World Cup, the Medical Technology Association of India (MTaI) has written to both the cricket associations - the International Cricket Council (ICC) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to integrate life-saving medical devices near spectators as a safety measure.

The proposed integration includes advanced medical monitoring systems, emergency response equipment, and other advanced technologies that can significantly enhance the ability to respond promptly to any health-related incidents in the crowd.

Further, they proposed to create a safety net at cricket stadiums thereby aligning seamlessly with the thrill of the game.

With this initiative, MTal aims to make cricket matches a health-conscious and fan-friendly experience. Moreover, this move could potentially establish a new standard for public health at sporting events, setting an example for global best practices in ensuring the safety and well-being of diverse audiences.

Expressing his views, Pavan Choudary, chairman, the Medical Technology Association of India, said, “In the spirit of the game, we believe that safety should know no boundaries. Our representation to the ICC and BCCI underscores the importance of integrating medical technology near spectators, ensuring a healthier and more secure cricketing experience.”

As per a report by Harvard Business School, the adrenaline rush, stress levels, and emotional fluctuations experienced by spectators at live sports matches can significantly increase the risk of cardiovascular events, brain strokes, etc.

In their findings, they underscore the importance of timely access to life-saving medical interventions, such as defibrillators and ECG monitoring, as critical components of spectator safety protocols.

Speaking on the issue of spectator safety, Dr Ratna Devi, director, the Patient Academy for Innovation and Research & Chairwoman, ISPOR Patient Council stated, “I believe that the integration of life-saving medical devices near spectators would be a critical step towards ensuring swift and effective response in the face of potential health emergencies. Just as we prioritise patient safety within the confines of a hospital, extending this commitment to public spaces, like cricket stadiums, large events and other venues will be a logical and necessary progression. ”

The Medical Technology Association of India (MTaI) is an organisation that represents leading research-based medical technology companies with significant investments in India. The aim of MTaI is to encourage MedTech innovation and strengthen India’s competitiveness in the global arena.

Talking about Medtech, the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) extended licence compliance for manufacturers and importers of high-risk medical devices. The extension applies exclusively to manufacturers and importers who had already submitted their licence applications to the central licencing authority before September 30, 2023. The CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation) issued a circular confirming this arrangement.

In granting an extension, the government responded to the fact that many manufacturers had applied for licences but were experiencing delays in receiving them.