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Episode 6: MedTech & IP Strategy: How to Protect Innovation and Avoid Costly Mistakes
Real stories. Real lessons. The protection your business needs.
In this episode of Figure 1: an IP conversation, Albright IP Managing Director Robert Games is joined by patent attorney, Dr William Doherty, to unpack one of the most complex areas of intellectual property: medical technology.
The MedTech sector is fast-moving and highly innovative, but it comes with strict patenting rules and unique challenges. From exclusions around the human body to the growing role of AI and data, protecting innovation in this space requires careful strategy and timing.
Through practical insight, the conversation explores how innovators can navigate patent restrictions, avoid disclosure risks, and build a commercially valuable IP portfolio that supports investment and growth.
The episode covers:
- Why certain medical methods and software are excluded from patent protection
- How to structure claims to work around patentability challenges
- What to patent (and when) in early-stage med tech development
- How to manage disclosure risks during clinical trials and research
- Protecting AI and data-driven medical innovations
- The importance of confidentiality agreements and clear ownership terms
- How to avoid disputes in collaborations with hospitals and universities
- Why Freedom to Operate (FTO) searches are critical early on
- How a strong patent portfolio supports funding, valuation and commercial strategy
This episode is ideal for med tech founders, startups, investors and innovators looking to protect their technology, attract funding, and avoid costly IP mistakes.

