Healthy Skepticism Library item: 3551

Warning: This library includes all items relevant to health product marketing that we are aware of regardless of quality. Often we do not agree with all or part of the contents.

Publication type: Journal Article

Hopley PJ, Rich AJ.
Pharmaceutical company representatives - an activity analysis
Pharmaceutical Journal 1988; 241:R21-22

Abstract:

A code of practice for pharmaceutical representatives was introduced for a 640-bed teaching hospital. The six main points of the code were: (1) reps should register their visit and purpose at a reception desk in the pharmacy, (2) they should wear an ID badge, (3), visits should be by prior appointment where possible, (4) reps must not enter clinical areas without permission, (5) all medicine supplies must be arranged through the pharmacy, (6) reps should respect hospital drug use policies. The reception desk provided information including staff lists, the hospital formulary, and policy statements. During six months, 85 companies were represented by 655 recorded visits, and 1,020 individuals or departments were called on. The number of calls per working day was 7.8. Nine companies made 40% of calls; this correlates poorly with sales value, number of products, and product changes. The code was generally well observed, but ID badges were often not worn and it can be assumed that not all calls were recorded. It is felt that similar codes should be more widely used. Some companies, in conjunction with hospital staff, should consider whether there may be more economical and efficient means of providing information to prescribers and pharmacists.

Keywords:
*retrospective observational study/United Kingdom/