Code of Conduct - Question & Answers

7b. Hospitality - January 2006

Question 1:
1.Three professionals only at a dinner/lunch? I have never seen that few at such an event
2. A group of doctors already have ownership of a box at a hockey arena. It is ours and in no way involves any relationship with reps. We have considered using a half hour prior to a game to make ourselves available as a group to reps. We in fact would be giving the reps tickets to the game, a complete reversal of what the code addresses. This is easier on the rep than trying to assemble doctors together for a lunch in the middle of a busy day. Can we assume this to be similar and allow the rep to provide refreshments/lunch as they would to a lunchtime meeting earlier in the day? How many doctors would be allowed to be present for the presentation?

Response:
The letter of the Code does not apply to hospitality and/or meals/refreshments provided by Health care professionals (HCP) to company representatives. However, the spirit of the Code could potentially apply to any situation where any monetary or other consideration is being given to HCPs for the purpose of gaining access or influence. Sales representatives must also be guided in all intervention with HCPs by the Guiding Principles and Section 8. Representatives of Pharma companies.