Code of Conduct - Question & Answers
April 2005
Question 1:
Company x rotated 25 hospital representatives from the new
sales force, across the country through the department of
Cardiology, Nephrology and Endocrinology. The representatives
followed Dr. Jeffery Zaltsman (Nephrologist), Gordon Moe (Cardiologist)
and Dr. Amir Hanna (Endocrinologist). The cost for the day
as mentioned to me by Company x Rep XXXX (was $4500.00 broken
up into 3 payments of $1500 to each of the physicians.)"
I see this as a way to get around and seek access to physicians,
which as per Rx&D CODE should not be an intent, please
let me know your views on this and if that is indeed the case,
I will like to lodge a formal infraction report.
Response:
If we understand correctly:
- 25 reps participated in a 1-day preceptorships where there
were 3 rotations
- each specialist was provided $1500 honorarium for a full
day work (they have taught 8 reps/session).
We believe this is acceptable – the honorarium for
a full day work is not excessive in our opinion.
Question 2:
Does Rx&D provide any courses or hold any meetings to
the industry on the Rx&D Code of Conduct? This would be
an extremely beneficial session for the pharma industry in
light of the recent emphasis being placed on compliance.
Response:
This was discussed at a recent IPC meeting; different avenues
to facilitate this training will be investigated. Once a decision
has been taken, member companies will be provided more information
at the SAGM.
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