202 - Becoming an Expert in the Work Nobody Wants to Do/Design, Risk, and the Messy Middle of Combination Products w/Joey Frechin

Let's Combinate - Drugs + Devices

In this episode of Let's Combinate, host Subhi Saadeh is joined by long-time friend and Senior Technical Program Manager Joey Frechin, who brings a wealth of experience in med tech consulting.

They discuss the intricacies of risk assessments for medical devices and drugs, focusing on differences and improvements in methodologies over the years. Joey shares insights on the challenges of aligning risk processes across different organizations and the importance of adaptable strategies. He also recounts his unique career path that blends design engineering with extensive process and risk management expertise.

The conversation covers trends such as the shift toward off-the-shelf platforms and the balancing act between innovative design and market readiness. Joey emphasizes the value of stepping into roles and tasks that others may overlook, which has been key to his professional growth.

00:00 Welcome and Introduction

00:49 Discussing Risk Assessments in Med Tech

04:34 Challenges in Aligning Risk Processes

09:44 Understanding P1 and P2 in Risk Management

12:55 Joey's Career Journey and Strategic Choices

24:12 Trends in Combination Product Design

31:48 Conclusion and Where to Find Joey

Joey Frechin is a technical program lead in the medical device and combination product development space.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/joey-frechin

Subhi Saadeh is a Quality Professional and host of Let's Combinate. With a background in Quality, Manufacturing Operations and R&D he's worked in Large Medical Device/Pharma organizations to support the development and launch of Hardware Devices, Disposable Devices, and Combination Products for Vaccines, Generics, and Biologics. Subhi serves currently as the International Committee Chair for the Combination Products Coalition(CPC) and as a member of ASTM Committee E55 and also served as a committee member on AAMI's Combination Products Committee.For questions, inquiries or suggestions please reach out at letscombinate.com or on the show's LinkedIn Page.