Code of Conduct - Question & Answers

4b. Sponsorship to International Continuing Health Education Events, Scientific Symposia, Congresses

Question 1:
This section outlines that a physician must advise on whether he or she has requested support from more than one company. However, it does not say anything about a physician getting support from more than one company, As such, I am assuming it is okay for a physician to get financial support from more than one company to attend an international congress, as long as we know that they have requested or received from another company.

Response:
The request for financial support and the event linked with the financial support must comply with the Code.

HCP must disclose to sponsors all “obtained” financial support.

Sponsors would then act diligently whether to offer additional financial support.

Question 2:
Can support be provided to allow for HCPs to attend courses/seminars or is this an infringement of the code and viewable as payment for access?

Response:
Payment to support HCP's to attend congresses held in Canada is a contravention of the Code. Support can be made for physicians who request support to attend International congresses as outlined in Section 4B.2 and 4B.3 of the Code.