Medical device manufacturers are getting better about involving their contract manufacturing partners earlier in the development process. While this offers an array of advantages, not following this model with critical supply partners can be detrimental. Gaining the insights of these suppliers early in the product lifecycle helps avoid rework or redesigns at a later phase, which adds cost and time.

One such supplier where a proactive approach adds tremendous value is the coatings provider. While some reach out early, other device makers work with a distributor and do not have the ability to give or get engineering input on their coating selection. And because they are not accustomed to speaking directly with the lab that developed the formulation and gaining access to their expertise and experience, they miss out on the technical expertise that is needed to optimize their device.

One such coating supplier is changing that dynamic. ISURTEC has established a commercial model that bypasses the middleman and works directly with device manufacturers. In the following Q&A, two representatives from the organization—Dr. Eric Guire, Chief Innovation Officer, and Dr. Maria Holm, Chief Operating Officer—speak to this arrangement and why it’s so important for their customers.

Sean Fenske: What is the traditional model for accessing medical device coatings? What are the challenges with this model?

Drs. Eric Guire & Maria Holm: Traditionally, when a device team realizes it needs a hydrophilic coating, it outsources that capability, either by licensing technology from a coating company or…