Jun 24, 2024
Radiological Health (CDRH) at the US Food and
Drug Administration (FDA). With a distinguished background as a
board-certified ophthalmologist and epidemiologist, Dr. Tarver is
at the forefront of transforming the evaluation and inclusion of
medical devices in underserved and underrepresented
populations.
In this episode, Dr. Tarver introduces the FDA and the CDRH
Division, explaining the definition of a medical device by FDA
standards. She discusses the creation of the Chief Transformation
Officer role within the FDA, highlighting its importance and the
strategic vision behind it.
We explore the critical importance of diversity, equity, and
inclusion (DEI) in evaluating medical devices, and how these
efforts are essential for ensuring equitable healthcare for all.
Dr. Tarver introduces the innovative “Home as a Health Care Hub”
initiative by the FDA/CDRH, explaining its potential to
revolutionize healthcare delivery.
Dr. Tarver also addresses the broader transformation needed in the
healthcare system to ensure no one is left behind, emphasizing the
role of partnerships in achieving this goal. She delves into the
role of Virtual Reality (VR) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in
making the home a central hub for healthcare, discussing this
ambitious initiative’s current status, challenges, and long-term
objectives.
Additionally, we touch on Dr. Tarver’s impressive background,
including her leadership roles within the CDRH and her academic
achievements at Spelman College and Johns Hopkins University.
Finally, we discuss the value of having the FDA in the BioHealth
Capital Region and its impact on advancing healthcare
innovation.
Tune in to BioTalk for an insightful discussion with Dr. Michelle
Tarver as we explore the future of medical devices, healthcare
transformation, and the pivotal role of the FDA in shaping a more
inclusive and innovative healthcare landscape.
Dr. Michelle Tarver is a board-certified ophthalmologist and
epidemiologist, serving as the Deputy Center Director for
Transformation. In this role, Dr. Tarver facilitates the
development, implementation, and direction of CDRH’s transformative
projects and strategic initiatives. Under her leadership, CDRH is
advancing efforts to include underserved and underrepresented
populations in the evaluation of medical devices. Her CDRH career
has included many leadership roles, including the Deputy Director
of the Office of Strategic Partnerships and Technology Innovation
and the Program Director of Patient Science and Engagement. Dr.
Tarver received a B.S. in Biochemistry from Spelman College in
Atlanta, GA and completed the M.D./Ph.D. program at The Johns
Hopkins University School of Medicine and Bloomberg School of
Public Health.