The European scene of medical technology

The development of medical technology in Europe is discussed with respect to the cultural differences between the European countries. It is argued that these differences are real and deserve to be accounted for in designing and developing activities at the European scale. It is noted that the Commission of the European Community has contributed considerably to the development of European research and development. The changes in the procedures for evaluating new proposals reflect the maturing of cooperative research efforts. The recent political changes in the eastern and central parts of Europe provide opportunities to extend existing networks for scientific research and development. Medical technology needs special funding opportunities to guarantee that health care benefits adequately from its findings. Technology transfer requires special attention also from the funding agencies. It is believed that the new European Society for Engineering and Medicine (ESEM) could be instrumental in creating and maintaining such networks