The medical device industry consists of products, processes, and technology. These are covered in almost every issue of MD&DI. But it also consists of people, without whom none of the amazing advances in medical science and technology would be possible.

In our June issue, MD&DI is honoring some of the people who make these advances possible and who ensure that they can treat patients safely and effectively. If we tried to list everyone who has made a significant contribution to medical technology, we would have to publish an issue larger than a phone book. So we highlighted 100 of them, just like we did in June 2004. There are a few repeats from that list, but most are people that we’re recognizing for the first time.

The number and breadth of accomplished people in this industry is stunning. You could spend hours each day online reading stories of people and companies that are advancing medical technology in incredible ways. So of course it wasn’t easy coming up with a representative list. We started with nominations from readers, Editorial Advisory Board members, and staff. We took those who made particularly notable contributions to the industry, and made sure we had as diverse a group as possible. On the list you’ll find everyone from inventors to executives to consultants to engineers to academics to regulators. Some of them you’ll know from previous coverage in MD&DI or accolades elsewhere. Others you might be hearing of for the first time. We hope you enjoy their stories.

Erik Swain
erik.swain@cancom.com