Alexander Melerzanov Presents Technological Solutions at Roundtable of State Duma Health Protection Committee
Alexander Melerzanov, Deputy Executive Director of the Institute of Biophysics of the Future at the Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology (MIPT), Associate Professor at the Department of Innovative Pharmacy, Medical Technology, and Biotechnology, and Head of the Committee on Science and Education of the Financial and Business Association of Euro-Asian Cooperation (FBA EAC), participated in an online roundtable discussion on March 3, 2026, organized by the State Duma Health Protection Committee in Yakutsk. The meeting focused on the challenges related to the procurement, maintenance, and operation of medical devices in healthcare institutions across the Russian Federation and the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia).
At the outset of the meeting, Fedot Tumusov, First Deputy Chairman of the State Duma Health Protection Committee, acknowledged significant achievements in Yakut healthcare, including the establishment of a new cancer treatment facility capable of addressing up to 800 types of cancer, as opposed to the previous capacity of 100 types, and the replication of the Mobile Brigade project in other regions. However, Tumusov also identified systemic issues, such as the absence of a dedicated emergency hospital in the capital, Yakutsk, despite a population exceeding 300,000 people, reliance on imported operating protocols that are not applicable in regional centers, and technical issues stemming from power supply fluctuations. Tumusov advocated for the development of a strategic program similar to the Pharma 2030 initiative to enhance the production and operation of medical equipment.
Sergey Glagolev, Deputy Minister of Health of the Russian Federation, confirmed the government's commitment to achieving technological sovereignty in the medical device sector. He presented statistics indicating that the current market for medical devices amounts to approximately 800 billion rubles, with only about 30% of that market being serviced by domestic products. Glagolev outlined key measures, including expedited product registration processes, the disclosure of proprietary systems to allow for the use of third-party components, restrictions on the import of medical devices in the presence of domestic alternatives, and the development of Russian-made components under the auspices of Rosatom.
Nadezhda Fedorova, Deputy Minister of Health of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia), reported on the procurement of medical equipment between 2021 and 2025, during which 3,385 units, including 99 "heavy" units, were acquired and distributed to 34 healthcare organizations, including 11 in Arctic regions. She highlighted challenges associated with maintenance in remote areas due to logistical and climatic constraints, and suggested the implementation of a regional certification system for suppliers.
Alexander Melerzanov presented the technological solutions developed by the MIPT Technology Transfer Center in collaboration with an industrial partner to address specific health issues in the Far North. These issues include shift work, polar nights, and extreme stress, which create psychophysiological challenges that require specialized approaches to recovery and rehabilitation. Melerzanov noted that the institute had received two registration certificates this year, including for a unique product that has undergone clinical trials on human subjects. He emphasized the positive collaboration with Roszdravnadzor, which has encouraged the submission of dossiers for clinical trials for subsequent unique developments.
The partnership between industry and scientific and educational institutions has already yielded results. The large-scale physiotherapy capsule "Magnetoturbotron," based on electromagnetic exposure, has been manufactured and distributed to medical institutions. This equipment has proven effective in rapid recovery from overloads, treatment of asthenia, and depressive states, as well as in supporting patients undergoing chemotherapy in cancer centers.
Among the latest innovations is the technology for inducing the alpha rhythm of the brain through audiovisual stimulation, which has already received a registration certificate. This technology is designed to effectively reduce anxiety levels during rehabilitation after injuries and stress. Additionally, a portable device based on the Russian "medial modulation" technology is in the process of obtaining registration. Its primary advantage is its compact design, allowing for its use during shifts for quick recovery directly at workplace locations.
Melerzanov emphasized that all equipment is manufactured in Russia, primarily in the Nizhny Novgorod region, using predominantly Russian components. The institute is prepared to supply equipment to Yakutia, provide training for personnel, and offer full-service support. He also drew attention to the critical shortage of medical physicists in Russia, noting that according to 2021 data, their numbers are insufficient to match the levels of the United States or China. He called for a systematic solution to this personnel issue to achieve parity.
The roundtable participants unanimously agreed on the necessity of developing a strategic program for the operation of medical equipment. They concluded that an integrated approach, encompassing personnel training, regulatory adaptation, and the development of domestic production and service capabilities, is essential to ensure technological independence and the provision of high-quality medical care in all regions of Russia, including remote and Arctic territories.
Photo Source: Fedot Tumusov’s Telegram Channel