December 15, 2003
To safeguard health and safety, the Department of Health this year conducted a public consultation on the proposed regulatory framework for medical devices, including high-power lasers and intense pulsed light (IPL) devices, a spokesman for the department noted today (December 15).
The spokesman was responding to a recent survey by the Consumer Council, which found that IPL and laser procedures, if not properly managed, could cause serious side effects and other complications.
He said medical devices, if operated by untrained persons, may pose a risk to both patients and operators.
"In this regard, the department proposed in a consultation document in July this year to limit the use or operation of certain high-risk devices.
"The Department of Health has proposed to restrict the use and operation of Class 3B and 4 lasers and intense pulsed light devices to trained personnel only. We welcome the support of the Consumer Council for our proposal in this regard."
Taking into account comments from the industry and the public, the department will present a revised proposal to the Legislative Council in early 2004 with a view to implementing an administrative control system to pave the way for the longer-term enforcement of mandatory requirements.
"Members of the public are advised to exercise their discretion in the choice of service providers and seek professional advice whenever appropriate," the spokesman added.