Healthy Skepticism Library item: 4537

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: media release

ACCC proposes to re-authorise code of conduct governing drug companies' dealings with doctors
Australian Competition and Consumer Commission 2006 Apr 28
http://www.accc.gov.au/content/index.phtml/itemId/733026/fromItemId/142

Full text:

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission is proposing to authorise* for three years a new edition of the code governing drug companies’ dealings with doctors.

“The code governs the activities of pharmaceutical companies when they promote prescription medicines to doctors”, ACCC Chairman, Mr Graeme Samuel, said today. “It has been developed by Medicines Australia, the national association representing the industry”.

The code regulates advertising of prescription drugs to the medical profession. Advertising to consumers of prescription drugs is prohibited by the Therapeutic Goods Administration.

The code also regulates matters such as drug company sponsorship of medical conferences; the payment of travel and accommodation expenses of doctors attending such conferences; and the provision of other forms of hospitality.

“The ACCC considers that the new edition of the code contains some improvements, but remains concerned that it is not always effective in actually regulating drug companies conduct. It is proposing a condition to improve the level of transparency around companies provision of benefits to healthcare professionals.

“The ACCC is also aware that a number of interested parties expressed concern with the code and recommended improvements. While the ACCC notes these concerns, its role in assessing applications for authorisation is to consider the arrangements before it. It is not to craft an ‘ideal’ code”.

The ACCC has also granted interim authorisation** to allow the new edition of the code to come into effect. The ACCC will now engage in a further round of public consultation before proceeding to make a final decision. More information regarding the applications and a copy of the draft determination are available by following the Authorising anti-competitive conduct and Authorisations links on the ACCC’s website.

Media inquiries
Mr Graeme Samuel, Chairman, Mobile: 0408 335 555, Pager: 0408 335 555
Ms Lin Enright, Director, Public Relations, (02) 6243 1108, (0414) 613 520
General inquiries
Infocentre 1300-302-502
Release # MR 093/06
Issued: 28th April 2006