The IPA has argued against the new order saying it disrupts the essential interface between pharma companies and healthcare providers and has far-reaching implications for public health, innovation, healthcare delivery, and patient care.
It has urged the health ministry to have a balanced, structured, and transparent engagement model, allocating days and time for interaction.
In a representation to the health ministry and department of pharmaceutical (DoP), IPA has said the diktat will impact of growth of pharmaceutical sector and result in job losses of medical representatives.
“The pharmaceutical sector is knowledge driven with significant rapid advancements. Industry interactions with doctors are fundamental for knowledge development and facilitating better patient care. MRs play pivotal role for knowledge dissemination.
“Guidelines have been laid between medical practitioner and industry interactions in Uniform Code of Marketing Practices and these interactions can be structured in hospital settings by allocating days and time for interactions,” said Sudarshan Jain, secretary general, IPA.As ET reported last week, the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) has instructed all central government hospitals not to permit medical representatives in the hospital premises.Raising concerns, the IPA said that their engagement with doctors ensures timely dissemination of product-related information, covering latest advancements and access of medicines to patients. It also helps during Introduction of new therapies like complex generics and novel biologics. They also play a pivotal role in sharing clinical trial data and global research developments, supporting evidence-based practice.
