The Biosciences and Implants Unit within the MHRA's Devices Division holds the secretariat for the In Vitro Diagnostic Advisory Committee (IVDAC). This committee is composed of independent experts in the field of pathology/laboratory medicine. Members of the committee are drawn from the NHS, academia, the Health Protection Agency (HPA) and the National Blood Service (NBS). They provide expertise in the following pathology disciplines: biochemistry, haematology, general microbiology, virology, immunology, genetics and molecular biology.
The IVDAC's terms of reference are as follows:
1. To advise the MHRA on matters relating to the use of in vitro diagnostic medical devices (IVDs).
2. To advise and comment on MHRA guidance and publications relating to the safety, quality and performance of IVDs.
3. To provide a forum for the discussion of topics relating to IVDs.
4. To provide expert advice to MHRA at short notice, for example on issues arising during the investigation of adverse incidents.
