Clinical investigations are a central stage in bringing new medical devices from laboratory development into real-world patient care. Regulators assess safety and effectiveness before technologies can be widely used, shaping how quickly innovations reach hospitals and clinics.
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency announced that medical device testing in the UK reached a record high in 2025, with 17 per cent more clinical investigations approved than in 2024. The increase spans areas including brain technology and artificial intelligence, alongside new measures designed to support innovation and growth.
Officials said the increase reflects strong interest from companies choosing Great Britain to trial new technologies. The announcement also outlined measures aimed at maintaining the country’s competitiveness in health research.
Record Growth in Medical Device Testing
Approved clinical investigations reached their highest level on record in 2025, rising by 17 per cent compared with the previous year. Companies are increasingly selecting Great Britain as a testing location for new devices.
Regulators stated that the increase demonstrates confidence in the UK’s regulatory environment and research infrastructure. The growth spans a range of medical technologies under development.
Testing Activity Overview
| Year | 2025 |
| Change from 2024 | Increase of 17 per cent |
| Scope | Clinical investigations of medical devices |
Benefits for Patients and the NHS
Earlier testing can allow patients to access promising technologies before they are available elsewhere. The MHRA indicated that innovations could improve diagnosis, treatment precision and management of long-term conditions.
For the NHS, new devices may support more efficient care delivery and better health outcomes. Access to emerging technologies can also assist clinicians in addressing complex medical needs.
- Earlier access to emerging treatments
- Improved diagnostic and care tools
Patient and NHS Impact
| Patients | Potential access to advanced treatments sooner |
| Clinicians | Improved tools for diagnosis and treatment planning |
| Healthcare system | Support for efficient service delivery |
Expansion in Brain and AI Technologies
Growth has been particularly notable in neurotechnology, with studies targeting conditions such as epilepsy and other neurological disorders. Artificial intelligence tools are also being developed to assist with early detection and personalised treatment.
Officials reported increasing numbers of studies involving devices that interact with the brain and nervous system. Digital health technologies are also expanding as companies explore new methods of patient support.
Regulatory Performance and Approval Timelines
The MHRA stated that it has consistently met statutory deadlines for reviewing applications since September 2023. Average approval times in 2025 were reported as faster than the official target.
Researchers receive scientific advice to support the design of safe and effective studies. This approach aims to maintain safety standards while facilitating innovation.
New Measures to Support Innovation
To encourage further growth, the agency has introduced initiatives including fee waivers for smaller firms and additional support for high-impact technologies. Updated guidance is also being developed for emerging research areas.
Officials indicated that reducing barriers for smaller companies could help promising ideas progress to clinical investigation. The measures are intended to strengthen the UK’s position in global health technology development.
Stakeholder Comments
Ministerial Comments
Lawrence Tallon, MHRA Chief Executive said;
“This has been a standout year for medical device innovation in the UK. We’re seeing more of the world’s most exciting technologies coming here first, particularly in areas like brain health.”
Mark Grumbridge, Head of Clinical Investigations at MHRA said;
“These results reflect the hard work and expertise of our clinical investigations team and our safety assessors.”
Steve Lee, Director of Diagnostics & Digital Regulation at ABHI said;
“The UK’s ability to attract clinical investigations is a signal of its competitiveness for HealthTech investment and innovation.”
To Summarize
Record levels of medical device testing highlight the UK’s growing role in global health research and development. Continued support for innovation, combined with regulatory oversight, aims to ensure that new technologies can be assessed safely and efficiently.
The MHRA’s initiatives are intended to maintain momentum while enabling patients and healthcare providers to benefit from advances in medical technology.
Sources: Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency.
Prepared by Ivan Alexander Golden, Founder of THX News, an independent news organisation delivering timely insights from global official sources. Combines AI-analysed research with human-edited accuracy and context.
