Comparative Cost Analysis of Selected Medical Devices Covered Under the Materiovigilance Programme of India

Background: Medical devices play a crucial role in modern healthcare delivery; however, their high and variable costs contribute significantly to out-of-pocket expenditure in India. The Materiovigilance Programme of India (MvPI) was established to monitor adverse events limited data are available regarding cost variations among medical devices included under MvPI. Aim: To compare the cost variation of selected medical devices covered under the Materiovigilance Programme of India and assess their potential economic burden on patients. Materials and Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional cost analysis was conducted using publicly available price data of selected medical devices included under MvPI. Device prices were collected from hospital price lists, government notifications, and manufacturer-declared maximum retail prices (MRP). Cost variation, percentage price variation, and cost ratio were calculated. Results: Significant cost variation was observed across most medical devices. High-cost implantable devices such as coronary stents, orthopaedic implants, and heart valves showed wide price disparities, whereas consumables such as scalp vein sets demonstrated minimal variation. The highest percentage price variation was observed among orthopaedic implants. Conclusion:Substantial cost variation exists among medical devices covered under MvPI, potentially increasing the economic burden on patients. Strengthening price regulation, improving transparency, and promoting indigenous manufacturing may help reduce cost disparities.