The Power of Collaboration: A Case Study with Topicus, Daan Verbree, and Holland Innovative
In the dynamic world of medical software development and compliance with the MDR (Medical Device Regulation), collaboration between different parties is essential for innovation while simultaneously adhering to strict legal and regulatory requirements. This was evident in the interview with Lisette van Steinvoren-Stamsnijder and Daan Verbree, who shared their experiences about the collaboration between Topicus (Daan Verbree) and Holland Innovative (Lisette van Steinvoren-Stamsnijder).
In this article, we take a closer look at the collaboration between these companies, where different areas of expertise converge to develop medical software that is safe, future-proof, and fully compliant. Topicus plays a key role in connecting health insurers, primary care, and secondary care with the goal of achieving optimal collaboration around and with the patient.
A Shared Vision: The First Steps Towards MDR-Compliant Collaboration
The collaboration between Topicus and Holland Innovative began through a mutual connection in medical technology. Topicus, known for its innovative software solutions in healthcare, teamed up with Holland Innovative, an organization specializing in technical documentation, clinical evaluation, and setting up quality systems for medical product development.
The story of this collaboration did not begin as a straightforward process, but as a search for the right partners with experience in regulatory pathways for medical software.
Daan Verbree, from Topicus, described how the search for the right collaboration started with another party, but the chemistry was lacking. After hearing positive experiences from other companies working with Holland Innovative, he decided to start a conversation again. This time, it led to the right match.
“What I found particularly valuable about working with Holland Innovative was the way they thought along with us. It’s not just about ticking boxes to be compliant, but they really look at what works for us as a company,” said Daan.
The Challenge of Compliance in Medical Software Development
When developing medical software, the focus is often not only on the technical aspects of the product but also on compliance with strict regulations like the European MDR. During the interview, it became clear that Topicus was initially more focused on speed and innovation, but soon realized that compliance is not a formality — it is an essential part of reliable software development.
“In the software world, we often work quickly. If we have an idea, it’s possible to bring a product to market within two months. But with the MDR, it doesn’t work that way,” said Daan.He emphasized that it is necessary to accept delays in a controlled process to ensure safety and legal compliance.
Lisette emphasized the importance of balancing creativity with compliance:
“We had to maintain space for innovation, but at the same time, tackle everything as structured as possible. It was a challenge, but eventually, we found a workable way.”
👉 MDR compliance within a fast-evolving software environment requires an approach where speed and structure complement each other.
The Importance of Open Communication in MedTech Projects
An important element that emerged from the conversation was the open communication between the different teams of Topicus Healthcare and Holland Innovative.
Lisette shared how she constantly worked with Daan and his team to come up with the best approach. This open dialogue about risks, solutions, and development strategies led to an approach that was not only technical but also practical and executable.
“The most important lesson so far is the importance of communicating concerns. Not just following the rules but also looking at the impact they have on the process,” said Daan.
Lisette agreed: “The beauty of our collaboration was that we didn’t only look at the letter of the law but also worked together to find where the space between the rules lies.”
👉 Clear communication is essential for a workable, risk-balanced MDR implementation.
The Process of Embedding in the Organization – QMS Implementation in Practice
The implementation of an improved Quality Management System (QMS) that complies with the MDR within Topicus' existing systems was a major challenge. Although the company already had multiple processes in place, they needed to be integrated into a system that was fully compliant.Additionally, the technical documentation for two products had to be rebuilt — a massive task that required expertise in MDR documentation requirements.
Lisette: “What we often see is that companies only look at compliance without involving employees. We actively involve people, so it truly becomes part of the company culture.”
Daan: “By actively involving employees in decision-making, we were able to implement the system more effectively. Now people understand why certain choices are important for product safety.”
👉 A QMS truly lives in the organization when it is embraced by everyone — from developers to managers.
Flexibility and Mutual Trust – Key Factors in MedTech Collaboration
The collaboration between Topicus Healthcare and Holland Innovative was not only about regulatory compliance but also about mutual trust and flexibility.
Daan:“Sometimes a process had to be adjusted or a course change was proposed. But we always had the trust that the decisions were in the best interest of the project.”
Lisette: “There’s really a solid relationship that has developed, where both parties understand each other. That is the foundation for sustainable collaboration.”
👉 Regulation and innovation strengthen each other when trust is the foundation.
The Outcome: Medical Software that Combines Innovation and Compliance
The collaboration resulted in products such as Spreekuur.nl and VIPLive — platforms that are both innovative and fully MDR-compliant. This proves that a pragmatic, communicative approach leads to long-term success.
“Our technical expertise and the compliance expertise from Holland Innovative complemented each other perfectly,” said Daan.
Lisette concluded: “It’s not about ticking checkboxes, but about understanding what is needed for a safe, workable, and future-proof product.”
👉 Compliance is not the endpoint, but an ongoing process of aligning, improving, and collaborating.
Conclusion: Collaborating for Success in Medical Technology
The collaboration between Topicus Healthcare and Holland Innovative is an inspiring example of how companies in medical technology and digital healthcare can successfully collaborate. By combining technical innovation, compliance, and people-centered collaboration, they created an approach that is both scalable and sustainable.
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For more information about Topicus, the company Holland Innovative collaborates with, and their innovative solutions in healthcare technology, visit their website: Topicus. Their work bridges the gap between health insurers, primary care, and secondary care, ensuring optimal collaboration around and with the patient.
At Holland Innovative, we understand that the world of medical technology and compliance is complex and constantly evolving. That’s why we offer various MedTech training courses aimed at expanding your knowledge of the latest developments in regulations and quality management systems (QMS). Our training is designed to support your team in navigating the challenges of the Medical Device Regulation (MDR) and other relevant standards.
Are you interested in broadening your knowledge or would you like to learn more about how we can support you in improving your processes and products? Schedule an appointment with our advisors through the Holland Innovative website.