Medical device monitoring network runs short on funding

Despite well-publicized problems, such as Guidant's defibrillator recall last month, the government is putting plans to expand a computer network intended to provide advance warning of potential problems with medical devices on hold. The FDA had proposed expanding the MedSun network, which monitors data on stents, defibrillators and pacemakers. Now officals are saying those plans will have to wait. Advocates say that isn't a particularly good idea, especially in light of recent problems. MedSun, which stands for the Medical Product Surveillance Network, currently collects data on device use from 350 hospitals. Last year, officials had said they wanted to expand the program to include 500.

- see this story from the Boston Globe