New PhRMA Ethics Code on Interactions with Health Care Professionals

In July 2002, the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) implemented a voluntary code on interactions between drug companies and physicians and other health care professionals. The Code pertains to marketed products and related pre-launch activities. It does not address relationships with clinical investigators relating to pre-approval studies. Although largely consistent with the American Medical Association's Ethical Opinions/Guidelines, the Code is more restrictive and specific in a number of respects.

The Code is based on the principle that a "health care professional's care of patients should be based, and should be perceived as being based, solely on each patient's medical needs and the health care professional's medical knowledge and experience." Toward this end, the Code encourages pharmaceutical company sales representatives to focus their interactions with health care professionals on informing them "about products, providing scientific and educational information, and supporting medical research and education."

Specific sales and marketing practices addressed by the Code include:

  • Meals, entertainment, gifts, and recreation
  • Consultants and speaker training meetings
  • Third party educational or professional meetings
  • Scholarship and educational funds

Among other topics, the Code addresses the issue of informational presentations and discussions led by industry representatives and others speaking on behalf of a pharmaceutical company. In connection with these events, the Code provides that meals (but no entertainment or recreational activities) may be offered so long as they are: (a) modest as judged by local standards; and (b) occur in a venue and manner conducive to informational communication and provide scientific or educational value. Inclusion of a healthcare professional's spouse or other guest in the event is not appropriate; nor is offering "take-out" or "dine and dash" meals to be eaten in the absence of a company representative.

Additional information about the Code is available at www.phrma.org.