The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) employs thousands of scientists, physicians, and engineers to fulfill its mission to protect and promote the public health.
However, high turnover and difficulties recruiting staff hamper the FDA’s ability to ensure the safety and effectiveness of drugs and medical devices, according to a report from the Partnership for Public Service (PPS). The Pew Charitable Trusts commissioned the report as part of its work with key stakeholders, including physicians, scientists, businesses and patient advocates, to improve FDA science, predictability, and efficiency.
While the FDA made some progress in recent years to address its staff shortcomings and increase its scientific capacity, PPS recommends that the FDA develop targeted recruitment programs to fill its talent pipeline, invest in career training and leadership development programs, and implement strategies to reduce attrition rates.
As an agency regulating $1 trillion in annual spending, or 25 cents of every consumer dollar spent, the FDA must have the necessary mission-critical staff to comprehensively evaluate the safety and efficacy of novel medicines and medical devices while ensuring that harmful products are swiftly removed from the marketplace.
To view the full report, click here.
- Date added:
- Nov 21, 2012
- Project:
- Innovate FDA
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