Medical devices, and particularly their introduction into the healthcare system are under scrutiny. Recent adverse experiences with devices such as the metal-metal hip implant and the PIP implant have accelerated the public awareness that there is insufficient safeguard against possible side effects of innovative medical devices. After a national broadcast of a consumer program revealing the ease to acquire a CE mark, the Dutch ministry of health was triggered to inform the parliament about new regulations to prevent future disasters.

Recently, a Dutch television broadcast alerted to the ease with which implantable medical devices can be applied in patients. Radar TV is one of the most influential consumer platform on Dutch television and it is to be hoped that this will have a broader effect on the use of medical devices, with an emphasis on patient outcomes.